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thistle cholla

Scientific Name: Cylindropuntia tunicata

Family: Cactaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Thistle Cholla

Thistle Cholla refers to several species of cacti in the genus Cylindropuntia and sometimes Opuntia. This article provides information compiled from various sources to assist in understanding this group of plants.

Scientific and Common Names

  • Scientific Name: Several species are referred to as Thistle Cholla, including Cylindropuntia davisii and Cylindropuntia tunicata. Sometimes, Opuntia tunicata and Opuntia davisii are used.
  • Common Name: Thistle Cholla is the most commonly referenced name across resources. Other common names include Davis' Cholla, Devil's Cholla, Sheathed Cholla, Chain Link Cactus, and Tuna Cholla.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Cactaceae (Cactus family)
  • Synonyms: O. davisii is mentioned as a synonym for Cylindropuntia davisii.
  • Alternative Scientific Names: Opuntia imbricata is sometimes associated with Tree Cholla, which is also a member of the Cactaceae family.

Considerations for Pets

  • These cacti possess crowded, branching cylindrical segments.
  • Many cholla cacti have spines that can detach easily.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Cylindropuntia davisii is found in southeast New Mexico and other disparate locations.
  • The Sonoran Desert, located in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, is one region where cholla cacti are found.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Thistle Cholla can be bushy or mat-forming.
  • It features much-branched, cylindrical segments.
  • Cylindropuntia tunicata is noted as being a very short shrub, growing up to 0.6 meters tall.
  • Cylindropuntia davisii is described as a tall, shrub-like cactus.
  • Cylindropuntia davisii has long, golden spines and greenish-yellow flowers. The spines are described as glowing.

Ecological Role

  • The text mentions an invasive species program, suggesting that some cholla species may be considered invasive in certain regions.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for gardening tips and ideas.
  • The USDA is referenced (Sce: USDA).