{"id":8548,"date":"2026-09-15T12:40:09","date_gmt":"2026-09-15T19:40:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wrwofficial.com\/index.php\/2026\/09\/15\/learn-how-to-grow-cholla-cactus\/"},"modified":"2026-09-15T12:40:10","modified_gmt":"2026-09-15T19:40:10","slug":"learn-how-to-grow-cholla-cactus","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wrwofficial.com\/index.php\/2026\/09\/15\/learn-how-to-grow-cholla-cactus\/","title":{"rendered":"Learn How to Grow Cholla Cactus"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><\/p>\n<div itemprop=\"text\">\n<div class=\"dpsp-post-pinterest-image-hidden\" style=\"display: none;\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1500\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/How-to-Grow-Cholla-Cactus-Pin.jpg\" data-pin-title=\"Learn How to Grow Cholla Cactus\" data-pin-description=\"For a desert or dry garden, cholla cactus (Cylindropuntia spp.) is hard to beat for sheer visual interest, offering architectural, branching shapes, striking colors, and bold blossoms that can rival those of wild roses. Just take care around the spines, which seem to leap off the plant at the slightest brush and can easily catch on clothing or skin. Learn how to plant and grow these striking cacti in this guide on Gardener's Path.\" alt=\"A close up vertical image of the spiny stems and bright pink flowers of cholla cactus growing wild. To the center and bottom of the frame is green and white printed text.\" class=\"dpsp-post-pinterest-image-hidden-inner  dpsp-post-pinterest-image-hidden-single\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/div>\n<p><span id=\"dpsp-post-content-markup\" data-image-pin-it=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>Cylindropuntia<\/em> spp.<\/h2>\n<p>My first encounter with cholla cactus is probably a familiar one.<\/p>\n<p>I was out hiking and I swear that a piece of a cactus I walked near, but didn\u2019t touch, leapt out at me and firmly attached itself to my clothing.<\/p>\n<p>I grumbled and swore as I carefully detached the spines, all while insisting that I hadn\u2019t actually touched the thing. It had jumped out at me!<\/p>\n<p>Thankfully, subsequent encounters have been far more pleasant.<\/p>\n<p>Chollas can be an eye-catching addition to a water-wise garden and I\u2019ve seen them serve as a stately focal point in many.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of a cholla cactus in full bloom with deep pink flowers.\" class=\"wp-image-203134 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Grow-Cholla-Cactus-Feature.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Grow-Cholla-Cactus-Feature.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of a cholla cactus in full bloom with deep pink flowers.\" class=\"wp-image-203134\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-small-font-size\"> <em>We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links,\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/affiliate-disclosure\/\"><em>we may earn a commission<\/em><\/a><em>.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Most <em>Cylindropuntia<\/em> species have a sort of shrubby shape, though there are tree-like options and creeping ground cover growth habits as well.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, they all flower and some even have gorgeously bold blossoms that rival roses. Some have colorful papery-sheaths over the spines, which adds another layer of texture and color.<\/p>\n<p>They are adaptable enough to grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 11 and are, unsurprisingly, extremely drought- and heat-tolerant.<\/p>\n<p>If you are <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/plants\/foliage\/best-defensive-plants\/\">looking for a natural fence<\/a><\/strong> that will keep deer, coyotes, and unwelcome humans out, you can\u2019t do better than this tough defender.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re ready to learn about how to grow cholla cactus, keep reading. Here\u2019s what we will go over:<\/p>\n<p>Before we talk specifics, let\u2019s get on the same page with our terms.<\/p>\n<p>Cacti don\u2019t have true stems, instead they have modified branches known as cladodes. These cladodes are made of cylindrical sections held together by segmented joints.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of Cylindropuntia safelipensis growing wild pictured on a blue sky background.\" class=\"wp-image-203118 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cholla-Cactus-Cylindropuntia-sanfelipensis.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cholla-Cactus-Cylindropuntia-sanfelipensis.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of Cylindropuntia safelipensis growing wild pictured on a blue sky background.\" class=\"wp-image-203118\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>The spines are technically called <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/plants\/succulents\/cactus-glochid-spines\/\">glochids<\/a><\/strong> and they\u2019re actually modified leaves.<\/p>\n<p>The glochids emerge from wart-like bumps called tubercles. In the cactus world, cholla are special because they\u2019re the only ones that have papery sheathes covering the spines.<\/p>\n<p>The cool thing about these sheaths is they are brightly colored on many species, adding another layer of visual interest.<\/p>\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0fcb876e\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-d8399382 gb-headline-text gb-headline-914f9427\" id=\"Quick-Look\">Quick Look<\/h2>\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-70c2ca02\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-15fd08d2\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-1cb9980f\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1cb9980f\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Common name(s):<\/strong> Choa, cholla, ciolim, jumping cactus, teddy bear cactus, walking stick cactus<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Plant type:<\/strong> Cactus<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Hardiness (USDA Zone):<\/strong> 5-11 (outdoors)<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Native to:<\/strong> Mexico, Southern North America<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Bloom time \/ season:<\/strong> Late spring, early summer<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Exposure:<\/strong> Full sun<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Soil type:<\/strong> Loose, coarse, sandy, rocky, depleted, well-draining<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Soil pH:<\/strong> 6.0-7.0, neutral<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Mature size: <\/strong>1-15 ft tall by 2-7 ft wide (depending on species)<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><span><b>Best uses:<\/b> <\/span>Desert, succulent, rock, Mediterranean garden, container specimen, houseplant<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6e3c00a\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6e3c00a\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:16px\"><strong>Taxonomy<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Order:<\/strong> Caryophyllales<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Family:<\/strong> Cactacae<\/p>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Genus:<\/strong> <em><em>Cylindroptunia<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Species:<\/strong> <em><em>Arbunscula, bigelovii, californica<\/em>, <em>cholla<\/em>, <em>echinocarpa, imbricata, versicolor<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Plants in the <em>Cylindropuntia <\/em>genus are closely related to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/plants\/succulents\/grow-prickly-pear\/\">prickly pears, cacti in the <em>Opuntia<\/em> genus<\/a><\/strong>. Both were once in the same genus, but were reclassified.<\/p>\n<p>Chollas can vary wildly in their form and shape, from creeping, low-growing ground covers to tall, tree-like species that can be up to 15 feet high.<\/p>\n<p>Most have a shrub-like shape with greenish stems, though stress will cause many species to turn orange or red, and light exposure can also impact color.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of cholla cactus growing wild.\" class=\"wp-image-203119 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Bigelovii-Growing-Wild.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Bigelovii-Growing-Wild.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of cholla cactus growing wild.\" class=\"wp-image-203119\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>In the wild, they often appear in groups called \u201ccholla gardens,\u201d where fallen tubercles have taken root to form clusters.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re like me and you prefer plants that can do double-duty as an ornamental and edible, you\u2019re in luck. Chollas have edible flowers and fruit.<\/p>\n<p>And they aren\u2019t just beneficial to humans. All kinds of wildlife including bees, birds, and deer love them as food and shelter.<\/p>\n<p>If you have neighborhood cats that like to hunt birds, a cactus is a great way to help protect the birds. Cats won\u2019t climb a cholla, so the birds can perch safely.<\/p>\n<p>If you or perhaps your child has had a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/how-to\/containers\/terrariums-mini-landscapes\/\">terrarium<\/a><\/strong> or aquarium, you might have purchased cylindrical \u201cwood,\u201d sometimes called cholla wood, to put in the enclosure.<\/p>\n<p>If so, that is actually a dried cholla section and not wood at all.<\/p>\n<p>There are about 35 species within the genus, though this may change as the taxonomy is further studied, and only a handful are commonly cultivated in gardens.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"How-to-Grow\">How to Grow<\/h2>\n<p>Cholla cacti aren\u2019t for everyone. If you live in a cool, rainy climate, you may need to nudge and cajole yours to survive.<\/p>\n<p>I live in the Pacific Northwest, and I have a neighbor who is obsessed with cacti.<\/p>\n<p>He is growing cholla in a container, but he has to bring it inside during the winter and situate it in a very sunny window with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/gear\/best-grow-lights\/\">additional grow lights<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of a Cylindropuntia fulgida cholla cactus growing in the landscape.\" class=\"wp-image-203131 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Fulgida.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Fulgida.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of a Cylindropuntia fulgida cholla cactus growing in the landscape.\" class=\"wp-image-203131\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Chollas are desert cacti, needing sunny, hot climates. They are also a terrible choice for growing in spots where people may walk by and brush up against the spiky stems.<\/p>\n<p>Even if you think you\u2019re a safe distance, there\u2019s a reason some species are called \u201cjumping\u201d cactus.<\/p>\n<p>They seem to leap out onto your clothing and skin and while they don\u2019t <em>actually<\/em> jump, it only takes the slightest brush and suddenly you\u2019re being stabbed.<\/p>\n<p>So be sure to situate this plant somewhere safe and away from passersby, both human and animal.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of a cholla cactus with deep purple blooms.\" class=\"wp-image-203121 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Spinosior.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Spinosior.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of a cholla cactus with deep purple blooms.\" class=\"wp-image-203121\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>You can absolutely grow this plant in a container, but you will need to choose a container that is large enough to support the mature size of the cactus.<\/p>\n<p>They don\u2019t have particularly large roots, but the concern is that they can be quite large aboveground and they can topple over if they don\u2019t have a good support base.<\/p>\n<p>So pick a container large enough to support your chosen species and make sure it has lots of drainage holes.<\/p>\n<p>My general rule of thumb is to use one gallon of soil for every foot of growth.<\/p>\n<p>So if you have a cholla that reaches 15 feet tall, you\u2019ll need at least a 15-gallon container, preferably one that is short and squat, not tall, unless it\u2019s <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/how-to\/containers\/plant-containers-pots-planters-material-best\/\">made from really heavy material<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Soil<\/h3>\n<p>If you\u2019ve ever grown cacti before, then you know that they like gritty, sandy, rocky, depleted, well-draining soil.<\/p>\n<p>If you have humus-rich soil in your garden, lucky you, but you should definitely grow something else. You have lots of other options out there.<\/p>\n<p>Assuming you do have gritty soil, you can make your plant even happier by growing it on a slope.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll often find cholla growing on a sloping area in the wild, which translates to better drainage than a flat part of the landscape.<\/p>\n<p>Or, plant your cholla in a container filled with a cactus-specific soil. Tank\u2019s Pro is one of my favorites.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.arbico-organics.com\/product\/tanks-cactus-succulent-potting-mix\/?a=2017\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"500\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up of the packaging of Tank's Pro Cactus and Succulent mix isolated on a white background.\" class=\"wp-image-203136 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Tanks-Pro-Succulent-and-Cactus-Mix.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"500\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Tanks-Pro-Succulent-and-Cactus-Mix.jpg\" alt=\"A close up of the packaging of Tank's Pro Cactus and Succulent mix isolated on a white background.\" class=\"wp-image-203136\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.arbico-organics.com\/product\/tanks-cactus-succulent-potting-mix\/?a=2017\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Tank\u2019s Pro Cactus and Succulent Mix<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>It consists of pumice, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/how-to\/composting\/coconut-coir\/\">coco coir<\/a><\/strong>, and compost to create a solid foundation that drains exceptionally well.<\/p>\n<p>Pick up an eight-quart or one-and-a-half cubic foot bag <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.arbico-organics.com\/product\/tanks-cactus-succulent-potting-mix\/?a=2017\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">at Arbico Organics<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Light<\/h3>\n<p>As with most cacti, your cholla wants lots and lots of sun. The more the better.<\/p>\n<p>This isn\u2019t a plant that should be parked in a shady spot.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of a teddy bear cholla cactus growing wild pictured on a blue sky background.\" class=\"wp-image-203130 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cholla-Cactus-Growing-Wild.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cholla-Cactus-Growing-Wild.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of a teddy bear cholla cactus growing wild pictured on a blue sky background.\" class=\"wp-image-203130\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Ideally, it will be exposed to direct sun all day long, though a few hours of shade is fine. Some shade might reduce flowering, however.<\/p>\n<p>Your cactus will likely develop a darker side and a lighter side based on which one faces the sun.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Water<\/h3>\n<p>Cacti are famously drought-tolerant, but it\u2019s not just a tolerance, it\u2019s a preference.<\/p>\n<p>Too much water will absolutely, without question, kill your cholla. Their roots aren\u2019t adapted to frequent moisture.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of a Cylindropuntia cacuts growing in the garden with bright pink blooms pictured in light sunshine.\" class=\"wp-image-203120 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Cactus-in-Bloom.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Cactus-in-Bloom.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of a Cylindropuntia cacuts growing in the garden with bright pink blooms pictured in light sunshine.\" class=\"wp-image-203120\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>You honestly shouldn\u2019t plan to water your cactus at all, just let nature handle the moisture. There almost isn\u2019t a climate that is too dry for these plants.<\/p>\n<p>Similarly, humidity is a no-go. They don\u2019t like it and they won\u2019t tolerate much of it.<\/p>\n<p>Having said all that, the climate is changing and even cacti can suffer from too prolonged of a drought.<\/p>\n<p>Remember, even though these plants come from arid climates, these regions typically experience a monsoon season.<\/p>\n<p>This is a period where there are frequent rains and it typically coincides with the times when cholla cacti drop segments and fruits to reproduce.<\/p>\n<p>If there hasn\u2019t been any rain in your area for an unusually long time, a little bit of moisture will be appreciated.<\/p>\n<p>Not a lot, just enough to keep it alive. Young plants, especially, need additional moisture.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fertilizer<\/h3>\n<p>Plants in the ground might never need fertilizer, depending on your soil\u2019s composition.<\/p>\n<p>Those in a container or extremely depleted soil could probably use a little food every few years.<\/p>\n<p>There are fertilizers formulated specifically for cacti, though I just generally use half strength all-purpose fertilizer.<\/p>\n<p>My go-to is Down to Earth\u2019s All-Purpose food, which is made from all-natural materials and comes in a compostable container.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.arbico-organics.com\/product\/down-to-earth-all-purpose-mix\/?a=2017\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"500\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up of the packaging of Down to Earth All Purpose Fertilizer isolated on a white background.\" class=\"wp-image-203135 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Down-to-Earth-All-Purpose-Fertilizer.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"500\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Down-to-Earth-All-Purpose-Fertilizer.jpg\" alt=\"A close up of the packaging of Down to Earth All Purpose Fertilizer isolated on a white background.\" class=\"wp-image-203135\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.arbico-organics.com\/product\/down-to-earth-all-purpose-mix\/?a=2017\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Down to Earth All-Purpose Fertilizer<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>You can find this product <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.arbico-organics.com\/product\/down-to-earth-all-purpose-mix\/?a=2017\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">available at Arbico Organics<\/a><\/strong> in one-, five-, and 15-pound containers.<\/p>\n<p>Apply in the spring at half or even a third strength.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Species-to-Select\">Species to Select<\/h2>\n<p>You will often see chollas sold as \u201cCylindropuntia cholla,\u201d but on closer examination, they aren\u2019t truly the cholla species.<\/p>\n<p>It seems to be a catch-all term. If you harvest plants for cultivation from the wild, keep in mind that they can hybridize with one another, so what you\u2019ll have might not be a true species.<\/p>\n<p>Also, remember that you should only harvest plants or plant parts where it\u2019s legal and you have permission to do so.<\/p>\n<p>Never overharvest, especially in areas where chollas are known to be struggling.<\/p>\n<p>If you can determine the true species name, look for some of the following options. They\u2019re all particularly nice in the garden.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cane, Tree, or Walking Stick<\/h3>\n<p><em>C. imbricata<\/em> is commonly called \u201ccane,\u201d \u201ctree,\u201d or \u201cwalking stick\u201d cholla because it grows tall, with long \u201cbranches.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of Cylindropuntia imbricata aka walking stick cholla growing wild pictured on a soft focus background.\" class=\"wp-image-203129 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Imbricata-Walking-Stick.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Imbricata-Walking-Stick.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of Cylindropuntia imbricata aka walking stick cholla growing wild pictured on a soft focus background.\" class=\"wp-image-203129\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Its size is perfect if you want a larger specimen in your landscape. They can grow up to 15 feet tall, but usually stay much smaller.<\/p>\n<p>Most chollas have yellow, green, or cream blossoms. But this beauty stands out.<\/p>\n<p>The late spring and early summer brings heaps of magenta, purple, or pinky blossoms on gray-green stems. The spines are reddish-pink, as well, with yellowy-tan sheaths.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s one of the more adaptable chollas, able to grow as far north as Zone 5 and can tolerate super hot, dry summers.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/planetdesert.com\/products\/cholla-cactus-cylindropuntia-imbricata?aff=344\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up square image of a potted walking stick cholla set outside.\" class=\"wp-image-203155 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Cactus.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Cactus.jpg\" alt=\"A close up square image of a potted walking stick cholla set outside.\" class=\"wp-image-203155\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/planetdesert.com\/products\/cholla-cactus-cylindropuntia-imbricata?aff=344\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Cylindropuntia imbricata<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p>You can find this species in four- and six-inch pots <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/planetdesert.com\/products\/cholla-cactus-cylindropuntia-imbricata?aff=344\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">available at Planet Desert<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pencil<\/h3>\n<p>Pencil cholla (<em>C. arbuscula<\/em>) takes its name from its long, thin stems, most around the diameter of your pinky.<\/p>\n<p>The flowers are yellow-orange to pale reddish-orange, and the spines are white, yellow, or tan, with white or yellow sheaths.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of the yellow flower of an Arizona pencil cholla pictured on a soft focus background.\" class=\"wp-image-203128 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Pencil-Cholla-Cylindropuntia-Arbuscula.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Pencil-Cholla-Cylindropuntia-Arbuscula.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of the yellow flower of an Arizona pencil cholla pictured on a soft focus background.\" class=\"wp-image-203128\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Although it\u2019s capable of reaching up to nine feet in height, it typically stays much smaller than that, around four feet tall in the home garden and often wider than tall.<\/p>\n<p>Having said that, it\u2019s not common in cultivation, so you might have to propagate your own from a permitted source. This one is hardy in\u00a0Zones 5 to 11.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Silver<\/h3>\n<p><em>C. echinocarpa<\/em> can grow up to seven or so feet tall with gray-red-brown-tan spines and green segments. The sheaths are whitish yellow.<\/p>\n<p>The flowers are a little less showy than those of some species, but still beautiful, with a green-yellow to pinkish-brown color.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of silver cholla cactus growing wild.\" class=\"wp-image-203127 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Silver-Cholla-Cactus.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Silver-Cholla-Cactus.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of silver cholla cactus growing wild.\" class=\"wp-image-203127\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>This plant likes a warmer climate than some others in the genus, needing Zone 6 and up to thrive.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s not an ideal choice if you are interested in harvesting the fruits, since they tend to have an unpleasant flavor and fragrance, and the majority will drop from the plant before they mature.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Staghorn<\/h3>\n<p>If it\u2019s flowers that you want, <em>C. versicolor<\/em> delivers. Each individual plant can have varying blossom colors, or they will all be one color.<\/p>\n<p>Within the species, the blossoms may be red, orange, purple, yellow or any variant of these.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of the orange blooms of a staghorn cholla cactus pictured on a soft focus background.\" class=\"wp-image-203126 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Staghorn-Cholla-Cactus.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Staghorn-Cholla-Cactus.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of the orange blooms of a staghorn cholla cactus pictured on a soft focus background.\" class=\"wp-image-203126\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Growing anywhere from three to 15 feet tall, the plant has an openly branching habit that does indeed look like tangled horns.<\/p>\n<p>The pink, white, or gray spines are shorter than many species and they don\u2019t overlap, which gives staghorn a distinctive appearance. The sheaths are gray.<\/p>\n<p>This is a popular species because the short spines make it less likely to stab you in the garden. It can grow in Zones 5 to 11.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Teddy Bear<\/h3>\n<p>This adorable cactus is so packed with spines that it resembles a fluffy teddy bear. Just don\u2019t try to snuggle with <em>C. bigelovii<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>It looks cute, but maintain a respectful distance unless you want an armful of spines.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of teddy bear cholla cactus growing wild.\" class=\"wp-image-203125 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Teddy-Bear-Cholla.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Teddy-Bear-Cholla.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of teddy bear cholla cactus growing wild.\" class=\"wp-image-203125\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>On top of the sheer number of the barbed hooks, the joints detach easily and will seemingly \u201cleap\u201d onto the nearest person or animal, so don\u2019t plant it near a walkway or patio.<\/p>\n<p>But observed from afar, it\u2019s an interesting option. The younger growth is creamy yellow, while the trunk turns teddy brown as it ages.<\/p>\n<p>In the late spring, yellow flowers speckle the plant, which can grow up to five feet tall in Zones 5 to 11.<\/p>\n<p>The sheaths are silvery-white on spines that are whitish-tan, and they completely cover the cladodes so you can hardly even see what\u2019s underneath.<\/p>\n<p>It makes the cholla look fuzzy rather than spiky.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Maintenance\">Maintenance<\/h2>\n<p>Be super careful when working around these plants. Even if you\u2019re wearing leather gloves, the spines can penetrate and stab you. And they\u2019re painful!<\/p>\n<p>Many species drop their stem joints as a way of reproducing. These joints fall to the ground, take root, and a new plant starts. If you don\u2019t want your cholla to spread, pick or rake these up.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of silver cholla cactus in bloom in the landscape pictured on a blue sky background.\" class=\"wp-image-203124 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Silver-Cholla-in-Bloom.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Silver-Cholla-in-Bloom.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of silver cholla cactus in bloom in the landscape pictured on a blue sky background.\" class=\"wp-image-203124\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>When the stems age, they die off and become hollow. You can remove these to improve the appearance. Cut them off at the base.<\/p>\n<p>Some, like the walking stick cholla, are really cool looking and you can use them in decor or as walking sticks.<\/p>\n<p>You don\u2019t need to deadhead flowers, if you leave them in place, they will develop into fruits.<\/p>\n<p>These fruits are technically edible, if not typically all that tasty. Animals will eat them, so they are a good source of food for wildlife.<\/p>\n<p>If you have excessively cold weather, you might need to address cold damage. You can <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/plants\/succulents\/revive-frozen-cactus\">learn how to do that here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Propagation\">Propagation<\/h2>\n<p>It\u2019s possible to grow a cholla cactus from seed, but the process is slow and unreliable. It\u2019s much faster and easier to use a vegetative reproduction method instead.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">From Cuttings<\/h3>\n<p>Cuttings are fast and easy to propagate. The key is allowing the cutting to \u201ccure\u201d and form a callus before you set it into soil.<\/p>\n<p>Start this process in the spring or early summer. Cuttings taken in fall and winter are prone to rot.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of teddy bear cholla cactus growing in small pots.\" class=\"wp-image-203123 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Bigelovii.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cylindropuntia-Bigelovii.jpg\" alt=\"A close up horizontal image of teddy bear cholla cactus growing in small pots.\" class=\"wp-image-203123\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>The hardest part of taking cuttings is avoiding injury, so <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/gear\/garden-apparel\/best-gardening-gloves\/\">put on gloves<\/a><\/strong> and wear a heavy leather or denim jacket while you work.<\/p>\n<p>Carefully snip off a cladode by holding it with a pair of tongs and using pruners to make the cut.<\/p>\n<p>If you examine a cholla cactus, it will be darker on the side facing the sun and paler on the other side. Note which direction the cutting was facing so you can reorient it that way once you plant.<\/p>\n<p>Allow the cuttings to sit in a dry, bright, well-ventilated spot to form a callus. This is a necessary stop to ensure that the cutting doesn\u2019t rot when you put it in the soil.<\/p>\n<p>After the base feels dry and slightly firm, set the cutting in a container filled with cactus potting mix and gently firm the medium around the base slightly.<\/p>\n<p>You don\u2019t want to bury it, but ensure that all the base is in contact with the medium.<\/p>\n<p>Water initially and allow the soil to dry out in between watering.<\/p>\n<p>Once roots start to develop, you can transplant and reduce watering. You\u2019ll know roots have developed when the cutting starts to grow or if you give it a gentle tug and it resists.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Transplanting<\/h3>\n<p>If you buy a potted cholla from a nursery, you\u2019ve got a challenge ahead of you to avoid getting stabbed when transplanting.<\/p>\n<p>Don some sturdy clothing and leather gloves and maybe even grab some tongs.<\/p>\n<p>Dig a hole that is the same size as the growing container that the cactus is growing in.<\/p>\n<p>Turn the container on its side and gently press and squeeze it to loosen the soil.<\/p>\n<p>You can optionally cut away the container or gently grip the plant and pull it free from the container.<\/p>\n<p>Set it in the hole and gently replace the soil. The cactus should be at the same depth or slightly less than it was in the container.<\/p>\n<p>Add a bit of water.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Pests-and-Disease\">Pests and Disease<\/h2>\n<p>There is really very little in terms of pests or disease that will bother chollas.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s not just herbivores that steer clear of feeding on these, but pests do, too.<\/p>\n<p>Actually, I should note that goats will sometimes eat them, so they aren\u2019t safe from those cute little sentient garbage disposals.<\/p>\n<p>About the only problem you have to be aware of is root rot caused by overwatering. Like I\u2019ve hammered home previously, you can\u2019t overwater these plants.<\/p>\n<p>If you do, it will essentially smother the roots and they will drown, killing the plant.<\/p>\n<p>Water needs largely depend on the soil composition.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s much easier to overwater in water-retentive soil. Truly sandy, rocky, well-draining soil on a slope is going to be much more difficult to overwater.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Holla for Cholla Cacti<\/h2>\n<p>For a dry garden, whether you\u2019re doing the Mediterranean thing or want to reduce your water usage, a cholla cactus will make a bold statement.<\/p>\n<p>The colorful spines and sheaths, the brilliant flowers, and the unusual shape make it enchanting.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" alt=\"A horizontal image of a walking stick or cane cholla growing wild in the Arizona desert.\" class=\"wp-image-203122 perfmatters-lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cane-Cholla-Growing-Wild.jpg\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Cane-Cholla-Growing-Wild.jpg\" alt=\"A horizontal image of a walking stick or cane cholla growing wild in the Arizona desert.\" class=\"wp-image-203122\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>The low water needs and lack of problems from pests and disease just make it all the more appealing. Let us know in the comments how you intend to enjoy your new prickly friend.<\/p>\n<p>And to learn more about <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/plants\/succulents\/\">other types of cacti to grow in your landscape<\/a><\/strong>, add these guides to your reading list next:<\/p>\n<aside>\n<p style=\"font-size: 70%; text-align: center;\"><em>\u00a9 Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. <a href=\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/1086-2\/#intellectual\">See our TOS<\/a> for more details. Product photos via Arbico Organics and Planet Desert. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/aside><\/div>\n<p><script>\n!function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)\n{if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function(){n.callMethod?\nn.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments)};\nif(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';\nn.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0;\nt.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];\ns.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)}(window, document,'script',\n'https:\/\/connect.facebook.net\/en_US\/fbevents.js');\nfbq('init', '176410929431717');\nfbq('track', 'PageView');\n<\/script><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Cylindropuntia spp. My first encounter with cholla cactus is probably a familiar one. I was out hiking and I swear that a piece of a cactus I walked near, but didn\u2019t touch, leapt out at me and firmly attached itself to my clothing. I grumbled and swore as I carefully detached the spines, all while [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":8549,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[329],"tags":[1273,2874,491,490],"class_list":{"0":"post-8548","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-gardening","8":"tag-cactus","10":"tag-grow","11":"tag-learn"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.0 (Yoast SEO v28.1) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Learn How to Grow Cholla Cactus - Well Rooted Wellness<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/wrwofficial.com\/index.php\/2026\/09\/15\/learn-how-to-grow-cholla-cactus\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Learn How to Grow Cholla Cactus\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Cylindropuntia spp. My first encounter with cholla cactus is probably a familiar one. I was out hiking and I swear that a piece of a cactus I walked near, but didn\u2019t touch, leapt out at me and firmly attached itself to my clothing. 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