ESTESBOG

            The plains pricklypear (Opuntia polycantha) is very abundant in northeast Colorado growing in a variety of habitats. Most of the year it is ignored by the general public. But in June each year the plains pricklypear asserts itself by coloring the prairie with an amazing array of ornate blossoms ranging from brilliant yellow to a sort of glowing pink to deep pink. The breathtaking show lasts perhaps three weeks and is followed by dark red fruits around the tips of the pads. Both the fruits and pads are edible but must be singed to remove the spines before they can be handled. Coronado and other early explorers of the Llano Estacado in Texas found little to eat except the pricklypear, the staple diet of Native Americans in the region.