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Botanical name: Opuntia cholla
The cholla cactus represents more than 20 species of the Optunia genus, with cylindrical stems; exceptional as an accent for rock gardens and planters; needs perfect drainage and sandy or gravelly soils.
Other names: syn. Cylindropuntia imbricata
| Hardiness zone | 4b |
|---|---|
| Flower color | pink |
| Foliage type | deciduous * |
| Plant form | upright spreading |
| Mature height | 4 feet |
| Spread | 4 feet |
| Light requirements | full sun |
| Moisture requirements | dry |
| Plant origin | North American native |
* deciduous = loses leaves in winter
Cholla Cactus has pink flowers at the ends of the stems in mid summer, which are interesting on close inspection. Its attractive succulent round leaves remain green in color throughout the season. The fruit is not ornamentally significant.
Cholla Cactus is an herbaceous perennial with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its relatively coarse texture can be used to stand it apart from other garden plants with finer foliage.
This plant will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and should never be pruned except to remove any dieback, as it tends not to take pruning well. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;
Spiny
Cholla Cactus is recommended for the following landscape applications;
Rock/Alpine Gardens
Cholla Cactus will grow to be about 4 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 4 feet. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years.
This plant should only be grown in full sunlight. It requires an extremely dry, well-drained growing location, and will usually die in standing water. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for a low-water garden or xeriscape application. It is not particular as to soil pH, but grows best in sandy soils. It is quite intolerant of urban pollution, therefore inner city or urban streetside plantings are best avoided. This species is native to parts of North America. It can be propagated by division.
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