Experts say the prickly pear cactus — which decorates homes around the world — could help alleviate hunger in arid regions due to its multiple uses.
"It's impossible to describe how many things you can get out of this plant. ... I really believe it's a miracle crop," said Paolo Inglese, a professor at Italy's University of Palermo.
As climate change brings erratic rainfall and prolonged droughts, countries should look to the cactus pear, which can grow in desert conditions, experts said.