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coastal cholla

Scientific Name: Cylindropuntia prolifera

Family: Cactaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Coastal Cholla (Cylindropuntia prolifera)

The Coastal Cholla, scientifically known as Cylindropuntia prolifera, is a fascinating cactus species native to specific regions of the United States and Mexico.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant has spines.
  • It is a succulent.

Considerations for Children

  • This plant has spines.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cylindropuntia prolifera (Engelm.) F.M. Knuth
  • Family: Cactaceae (Cactus family)
  • Synonym: Opuntia prolifera

Common Names

  • Coastal Cholla
  • Coast Cholla
  • Jumping Cholla (sometimes)

Distribution and Habitat

  • The Coastal Cholla is found in coastal California, specifically from San Bernardino County southwards.
  • It is also found on the Channel Islands (e.g., Catalina Island, Anacapa Island, Santa Barbara Island) and Baja California.
  • This species thrives in dry conditions, such as those found in the South Coast region.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • The Coastal Cholla is an evergreen stem succulent.
  • It is described as an erect, +/- arborescent plant, typically growing 1-2 meters tall and wide, with many spreading branches.
  • Older stems can reach approximately 1 dm (10 cm) in thickness.
  • The leaves are reduced to spines, up to 1 inch long.
  • It is a tree-like shrub, growing 3 to 6 feet high.

Ecological Role

  • The Coastal Cholla dominates some plant communities adapted to dry conditions.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Mentioned as a habitat for the Coastal Cactus Wren

Quirky Facts

  • The plant has beautiful magenta or purple-pink flowers that appear in spring.
  • Some sources suggest this Opuntia might be the result of a hybridization between Cylindropuntia alcahes and Cylindropuntia cholla.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
  • CalPhotos provides images of Cylindropuntia prolifera.
  • California Native Plant Society (San Diego Chapter) provides information about the plant.