Coastal Cholla
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(Cylindropuntia prolifera)
Coastal Cholla (Cylindropuntia prolifera)
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Jacob Dubi
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Jacob Dubi
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Jacob Dubi | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Jacob Dubi | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2021-04-21T19:37:42Z |
Summary
Cylindropuntia prolifera, commonly known as the Coastal Cholla, is a treelike cactus native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral of Southern California and Baja California, as well as to the immediate inland valleys. It can reach up to 10 feet in height and is characterized by its gray-green, cylindrical stem segments that are armed with spines. The Coastal Cholla blooms in late spring to early summer, producing reddish-purple flowers that are quite showy, followed by yellowish fruit that is dry and spiny.
The Coastal Cholla is valued for its unique sculptural form and is often used in xeriscaping and desert gardens where its low water requirements and high heat tolerance are advantageous. It is also a food source for native wildlife, including birds and small mammals. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance, thriving in full sun and well-draining soils. While it is drought-tolerant, occasional watering during extremely dry periods can promote healthier growth. Gardeners should be cautious of its spines and consider its placement to avoid injury. It has been found to become invasive in parts of Australia where it forms dense thickets and crowds out native vegetation.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Coastal Cholla is valued for its unique sculptural form and is often used in xeriscaping and desert gardens where its low water requirements and high heat tolerance are advantageous. It is also a food source for native wildlife, including birds and small mammals. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance, thriving in full sun and well-draining soils. While it is drought-tolerant, occasional watering during extremely dry periods can promote healthier growth. Gardeners should be cautious of its spines and consider its placement to avoid injury. It has been found to become invasive in parts of Australia where it forms dense thickets and crowds out native vegetation.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Height: 3-5 feet
- Width: 3-5 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow, Moderate
- Flower Color: Green, Purple, Red, Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Drainage: Fast, Medium
Common Uses
Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden
Natural Habitat
Native to the coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and immediate inland valleys of Southern California and Baja California
Other Names
Common Names: Desert Christmas Cactus, Jumping Cholla, Proliferating Cactus
Scientific Names: Cylindropuntia prolifera, Grusonia prolifera, Opuntia prolifera
GBIF Accepted Name: Cylindropuntia prolifera