Types of Cholla Cactus Plants. The Cylindropuntia genus is known for its spiky, segmented stems. They thrive in arid regions and are predominantly found in the southwestern US and northern Mexico. Each species has unique aspects that set it apart. There are 35 types of Cholla Cactus here 10 of the most common.
Pictures of types of Cholla cacti
1. Jumping Cholla (Cylindropuntia fulgida)
- Famous for its loose joints that easily attach to anything passing by.
- Also called the Chain Fruit Cholla because of the hanging chains of fruit.
- Grows up to 13 feet tall and tends to form dense thickets.
- Found in Arizona and California, often in desert valleys.
2. Teddy Bear Cholla (Cylindropuntia bigelovii)
- Named for its soft, fuzzy look, but don’t be fooled by appearances—its spines are sharp and barbed.
- It grows about 3–5 feet tall.
- Thrives in hot desert habitats, such as the Mojave.
- Produces small greenish-yellow flowers in spring.
3. Staghorn Cholla (Cylindropuntia versicolor)
- Known for its antler-like stems, which appear in various shades like green, purple, or red.
- Blooms with stunning pink or magenta flowers, especially in early summer.
- Common in southern Arizona, especially in the Sonoran Desert.
- Frequently used as a nesting site for desert birds.
4. Buckhorn Cholla (Cylindropuntia acanthocarpa)
- One of the hardiest types, with low water requirements and great adaptability.
- Stems are slender and upright, resembling animal horns.
- Produces yellow to orange flowers, adding color to arid environments.
- Found in the Colorado Desert and throughout the Southwest.
5. Christmas Cholla (Cylindropuntia leptocaulis)
- Hardy yet slim, with stems only half an inch thick.
- Named for the small red berries it produces in winter.
- Often found in low deserts and grasslands across Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.
- It grows smaller than other species, usually up to 3 feet.
6. Cane Cholla (Cylindropuntia spinosior)
- Features thicker segments that form a cane-like appearance.
- Grows 4–8 feet tall and develops a tree-like structure over time.
- Bears purple or magenta flowers that contrast strikingly with the terrain.
- Native to the Chihuahuan Desert and the American Southwest.
7. Devil’s Cholla (Cylindropuntia californica)
- Exclusive to California’s coastal regions and Baja California.
- Known for its gnarled, chaotic growth pattern and densely packed spines.
- Typically smaller, with some staying under 3 feet tall.
- A rare species with limited natural habitat.
8. Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia arbuscula)
- Recognizable by its thin, pencil-like stems.
- Lower in height compared to others, it grows in bushy clumps.
- Found at elevations of 2,500–5,000 feet, thriving in semi-arid zones.
- Produces yellow-green flowers in warmer months.
9. Diamond Cholla (Cylindropuntia ramosissima)
- A small variety, reaching about 2–4 feet tall.
- Named for the diamond-shaped pattern on its stems.
- Grows sparsely and blends with desert scrub in Arizona, California, and Nevada.
- Survives on minimal rainfall and rocky soils.
10. Queen of the Desert (Cylindropuntia echinocarpa)
- It is known for its spines that turn golden in sunlight, creating a glowing effect.
- Grows in sandy or rocky soils across desert basins.
- Produces fruit that birds feed on, forming part of the desert ecosystem.
- Populations are widespread, especially in the Sonoran and Mojave Deserts.
- Also called the Silver Cholla. You can see pictures of this Cholla on Wikipedia.
These plants thrive in a Xeriscape design because they require little water and are drought-tolerant.
Is it illegal to remove native cactus?
It sure is. Fines can be upwards of 150.000 dollars. If it’s in your property you still have to notify each state agency before removing these plants.
Types of Cholla Cactus Plants
Key Takeaway
Cholla cacti are more than just spiny desert plants—they’re integral to desert ecosystems, offering food and shelter for various animals. Each type stands out with its unique traits, adapted to harsh environments. Whether tall and tree-like or small and unassuming, these plants exemplify survival and resilience in the world’s toughest conditions.
