Tree Cholla
Cylindropuntia imbricata
Also listed as Opuntia imbricata
Also known as Chain Cholla, Cholla Cactus, Imbricate Cactus
Climate Match for your location
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A columnar cactus with dense cylindrical stems and vibrant magenta flowers, native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. Extremely drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established.
Why grow it
Tree cholla offers a more upright, columnar form than many other cholla species, making it useful where vertical structure is needed in xeric gardens. Its magenta flowers provide color in late spring through early summer when many desert plants have finished blooming. Compared to other Cylindropuntia species, it tolerates colder temperatures and has been successfully grown in USDA zones 5-11, extending its range northward.
Watch out for
The detachable stem segments can be a nuisance if plants are located near walkways or seating areas where people might brush against them. Like other chollas, it prefers very well-draining soil and full sun; in areas with high humidity or poor drainage, root rot can develop even in drought-adapted specimens. Young plants benefit from protection during establishment, particularly in the coldest parts of its hardiness range.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Cactaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southwestern United States and Mexico
Native to: Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
A columnar cactus with dense cylindrical stems and vibrant magenta flowers, native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. Extremely drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Tree Cholla grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Tree cholla offers a more upright, columnar form than many other cholla species, making it useful where vertical structure is needed in xeric gardens. Its magenta flowers provide color in late spring through early summer when many desert plants have finished blooming. Compared to other Cylindropuntia species, it tolerates colder temperatures and has been successfully grown in USDA zones 5-11, extending its range northward.
Watch out for
The detachable stem segments can be a nuisance if plants are located near walkways or seating areas where people might brush against them. Like other chollas, it prefers very well-draining soil and full sun; in areas with high humidity or poor drainage, root rot can develop even in drought-adapted specimens. Young plants benefit from protection during establishment, particularly in the coldest parts of its hardiness range.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Cactaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southwestern United States and Mexico
Native to: Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
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