Opuntia ficus-indica , also commonly known as prickly pear, reached South Africa with European settlers in the 18th century, and became particularly useful as food, fodder and a living barrier around properties. It spread through the country's dry eastern regions, and by the early 20th century the wild plant had become a major agricultural problem, with estimates putting the affected area at about 900,000 hectares.
Get breaking news anytime, anywhere. Download the TOI app now!
