Cholla
Cholla is an upright, irregular-shaped cactus that grows naturally south of Colorado Springs to Pueblo. It has small arms (joints) that extend horizontally from the main greenish-grey stems.
Stunning, double, bright pink flowers bloom in summer and are followed by yellow fruit. This plant is a favorite food source for native bees.
Cholla is covered in very sharp, barbed spines and should be planted a safe distance from pathways.
Cholla
Cholla is an upright, irregular-shaped cactus that grows naturally south of Colorado Springs to Pueblo. It has small arms (joints) that extend horizontally from the main greenish-grey stems.
Stunning, double, bright pink flowers bloom in summer and are followed by yellow fruit. This plant is a favorite food source for native bees.
Cholla is covered in very sharp, barbed spines and should be planted a safe distance from pathways.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Cylindropuntia imbricata
Pronunciation
SIL-in-dro-PUN-shee-a im-brih-KAY-tuh
Mature Height
3 to 4 ft.
Mature Spread
3 to 4 ft.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
bright pink
Bloom time
July
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 5-9
Elevation Limit
not specified
Performance
At the Water Wise Demonstration Garden, the cholla that is planted in our no water zone has grown quite well. This is a good larger cactus for drier areas of Colorado Springs gardens.
The spines are barbed, so plant it far away from pathways or other areas of traffic.
Maintenance
None required.