SafePlants

Thistle Cholla: A Prickly Delight

Thistle cholla refers to several species of cacti in the Cylindropuntia genus. These plants are known for their distinctive appearance and are found in various arid and semi-arid regions.

Considerations for Pets

• Many varieties of thistle cholla possess spines that can easily detach and embed in skin or fur, posing a potential hazard to curious pets.
• The plant's physical structure, with its potentially sharp and rigid segments, could cause physical injury if handled improperly.

Considerations for Children

• The spines on thistle cholla are easily dislodged, presenting a potential puncture hazard for children.
• Children might be tempted to touch or handle the plant due to its unique appearance, leading to possible injury.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Multiple species are referred to as thistle cholla, including Cylindropuntia davisii and Cylindropuntia tunicata.
• Common Name: Thistle cholla
• Family: Cactaceae (Cactus family)
• Synonyms: Opuntia davisii (for Cylindropuntia davisii)
• Alternative scientific names mentioned: Opuntia tunicata

Distribution and Habitat

• Thistle cholla species can be found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, including regions within the Sonoran Desert.
• Specific locations mentioned include southeast New Mexico and Peach Springs Canyon (for Cylindropuntia abyssi).

Morphological Characteristics

• Thistle cholla can be bushy or matted in growth habit.
• It features crowded, much-branched, cylindric segments.
• Cylindropuntia tunicata is described as a very short shrub, growing up to 0.6 meters tall.
• Cylindropuntia davisii is characterized as a tall shrub-like cacti with long golden spines and greenish-yellow flowers.

Additional Information

• Other common names associated with Cylindropuntia tunicata include chain link cactus and sheathed cholla.