SafePlants

Cylindropuntia imbricata: The Cane Cholla

The Cane Cholla, scientifically known as Cylindropuntia imbricata, is a fascinating cactus species with a variety of common names reflecting its unique characteristics.

Common Names

• Cane Cholla
• Walking Stick Cholla
• Tree Cholla
• Chainlink Cactus
• Tree Cactus
• Candalabrum Cactus
• Devil's Rope
• Coyote Prickly Pear
• Tuna Juell
• Velas de Coyote
• Cane Cactus

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cylindropuntia imbricata (Haw.) F.M. Knuth
• Family: Cactaceae (Cactus family)
• Kingdom: Plantae (Plants)
• Taxonomic Rank: Variety: Knuth var. imbricata
• Synonym: Opuntia imbricata

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the Southwestern United States.
• Also found in areas of New Mexico and Oklahoma.
• Often grows surrounded by grasses and low-growing plants.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Can grow as a ground creeper, shrub, or tree.
• Varies in height from less than a foot to as much as 15 feet.
• Typically has cylindrical stem segments joined end-to-end, creating a branching, tree-like structure.
• Shrubby when young, maturing to a tree form with a woody trunk.
• Growth stops at the end of each season.
• Reproduces when stem joints fall to the ground and take root.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is noted as being "equally spiny" to the prickly pear.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is noted as being "equally spiny" to the prickly pear.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Bees are known to visit the flowers of the Cylindropuntia imbricata.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
• Encyclopedia of Life contains information and articles about Cylindropuntia imbricata, including distribution data.
• Joshua Tree National Park is home to the Cholla Cactus Garden.