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rat-tail cholla

Scientific Name: Cylindropuntia ×viridiflora

Family: Cactaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Cylindropuntia and its Many Names

This page explores several members of the Cylindropuntia genus, a group of cacti commonly known as chollas. Let's delve into some specific species and their characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

  • Several cacti mentioned here, including chollas, possess thorns which could pose a risk to pets.

Considerations for Children

  • Several cacti mentioned here, including chollas, possess thorns which could pose a risk to children.

Cylindropuntia whipplei

  • Common Names: Whipple's Cholla, Rat-tail Cholla, Plateau Cholla, Clokey Cholla, Whipple's Cactus
  • Synonym: Opuntia whipplei
  • Family: Cactaceae (Cactus Family)
  • Habitat: Scrub Oak/Ponderosa areas, such as around Durango, Colorado.
  • Description: Shows pretty large local variation.

Cylindropuntia viridiflora

  • Common Name: Rat-tail Cholla
  • Synonyms: Opuntia viridiflora, Opuntia imbricata var. viridiflora
  • Family: Cactaceae (Cactus Family)
  • Habitat: Semi-desert and foothills, often found in openings. Reported in the Carpenter Natural Area.

Opuntia leptocaulis (Pencil Cholla)

  • Common Names: Pencil Cholla, Desert Christmas Cactus, Christmas Cholla, Garambullo, Tasadijillo, Tasajillo, Tesage, Rat-tail Cactus, Slender Stem Cactus
  • Description: Thicket-forming cactus that grows to approximately 1-6 feet tall.

Distribution and Habitat

  • The Cylindropuntia genus is native to northern Mexico and the Southwestern United States.
  • Specific locations mentioned include Durango, Colorado, and the Carpenter Natural Area.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Chollas are generally shrubby cacti.
  • Cylindropuntia whipplei grows as a medium shrub, up to 3 feet tall, and is hardy to 20°F.
  • Opuntia leptocaulis (Pencil Cholla) is a thicket-forming cactus reaching 1 to 6 feet in height.
  • One source describes "unique, cylindrical growth with crossing stems".

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Woodrats (Pack Rats) are known to build nests in and of cholla cacti, using the cacti for shelter and possibly for food and water, chewing on the pods.

Quirky Facts

  • One source mentions using a "rat tail comb" to dislodge clumps of cholla cactus, highlighting the plant's clinging nature.
  • Another source speaks of using a "rat tail" to ream out the hole of a cholla cactus to use it as a rod grip.