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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Silver cholla
(Cylindropuntia echinocarpa)
Also Known As
Silver cholla, Teddy bear cholla, Jumping cholla
About This Plant
Cylindropuntia echinocarpa is a species of cactus native to the Mojave Desert and Sonoran Desert. It is a shrubby or tree-like cactus that can grow up to 16 feet tall. The stems are cylindrical and segmented, covered in sharp spines that can cause severe injury. The flowers are yellow or red and bloom in the spring.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
Height: 3-16 feet (1-5 meters), Width: 3-6 feet (1-2 meters)
Light Requirements
Cylindropuntia echinocarpa prefers full sun, at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Humidity Needs
This plant prefers low humidity levels and can tolerate dry air.
Fertilizing Schedule
This plant does not require regular fertilization. You can feed it with a cactus-specific fertilizer once a year during the growing season.
Pruning Guidelines
Pruning is not necessary for this plant, but you can remove dead or damaged segments with clean, sharp pruning shears.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests for Cylindropuntia echinocarpa include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Watch for signs of infestation and treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Indoor Size Range
Not suitable for indoor growing
Watering Schedule
This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Temperature Range
Cylindropuntia echinocarpa can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 20°F (-6°C) to 120°F (49°C).
Growing Season
Cylindropuntia echinocarpa grows best in the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild.
Growing Difficulty Level
Cylindropuntia echinocarpa is a relatively easy plant to grow, as long as it is given the proper growing conditions.
USDA Hardiness Zones
USDA hardiness zones 8a-11
Did You Know?
The spines of Cylindropuntia echinocarpa were traditionally used by Native Americans as sewing needles and fishhooks.
