Cylindropuntia Cactus Care

Cylindropuntia cacti, commonly known as cholla, are a unique group of cacti native to the American Southwest. These plants are well-known for their segmented branches and formidable spines. Proper care is essential to keep your cholla healthy and thriving.

by Mia Cooper

Updated: December 15, 2023 / 5 mins read

Mia Cooper is a passionate bonsai and plant enthusiast, renowned for her expertise in the world of miniature trees and lush houseplants. She is the creator of the website Bonsai Primer, where she shares her knowledge and experiences, offering tips, tutorials, and insights to fellow plant lovers.

Scientific Classification

Scientific Classification is a way to sort living things into groups. It’s like organizing your clothes into drawers to find them easily. Here is how the Cylindropuntia cactus fits into these groups:

Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Cactaceae
Genus: Cylindropuntia
Species: There are many species, such as Cylindropuntia fulgida (Chain Fruit Cholla) or Cylindropuntia imbricata (Tree Cholla)

Light

Cylindropuntia cacti love lots of sunlight. For good growth, you should place them in a spot where they can get direct sunlight for a few hours each day. But if the sun is too strong, especially during the hottest part of the day, it can hurt them. So, it’s best to provide some light shade to protect them. If you keep them indoors, a sunny window is ideal. Make sure the light touches your cactus for at least six hours daily. Without enough light, your cactus may start to stretch out, looking for more sun, and may not grow as well as it could.

Water

Cylindropuntia cactus needs little water to thrive. They store water in their thick stems, so they can go a long time without a drink. It’s best to water your cactus when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Give the soil a good soak, but make sure it drains away. Don’t water the cactus too much, because too much water can cause the roots to rot. During winter, when the cactus is not growing, water it even less. This mimics the natural dry season they are used to. Remember, it’s better to under-water than to over-water a Cylindropuntia cactus.

Soil

For the Cylindropuntia cactus, the right soil is crucial. It needs soil that drains water well. This means the soil should let water run through quickly, without holding on to it for too long. Imagine water running through a sieve, the soil should work much like that. A cactus mix, which you can find at gardening stores, is perfect. You can make your own by mixing regular potting soil with sand or perlite. Perlite looks like white popcorn and helps to keep the soil loose. Remember, soil that stays too wet can cause the cactus roots to rot, so be sure it’s the type that dries out fairly fast.

Temperature

The Cylindropuntia cactus likes it warm. Think of its natural habitat, the desert, where it’s usually hot during the day. You should keep your cactus in a place where the temperature is consistently between 70 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature drops too low, especially below freezing, the cactus can get damaged. It’s hard for the cactus to cope with the cold because it doesn’t have the typical leaves or thick bark that other plants use to keep warm. So during winter, keep your Cylindropuntia inside or in a warm spot if you live somewhere that gets pretty chilly.

Humidity

Humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air. The Cylindropuntia cactus prefers low humidity environments. This means it does well in dry air, like the conditions in deserts. Too much humidity can harm the cactus, causing it to rot. If you live in a place with high humidity, you must be extra careful not to overwater the plant. Good air circulation around the cactus can help prevent problems caused by high humidity. Therefore, always ensure your Cylindropuntia cactus is in a space where the air can move freely to keep it healthy.

Fertilizer

Fertilizer is like vitamins for your Cylindropuntia cactus. It gives the plant extra nutrients to grow stronger and healthier. You do not need to use it often. Feeding your cactus with fertilizer should be done during the growing season, which is spring and summer. A cactus-specific fertilizer or a low-nitrogen blend works best. Use it about once a month, but always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package. Too much fertilizer can harm your cactus, so it’s important to use the right amount.

Size & Growth Rate

The Cylindropuntia cactus, also known as the cholla, grows at a moderate rate. It can reach up to 3 feet tall. Over time, it spreads out by dropping segments that root and grow into new plants. The cholla’s growth speed depends on the care it receives. With enough sunlight and the right soil, it will grow steadily. However, if it doesn’t get what it needs, growth can slow down or stop. This cactus doesn’t grow fast, so you don’t have to repot it often.

Common Issues

Cylindropuntia cacti can face several problems, just like other plants. One common issue is overwatering, which can cause root rot. Root rot is when the plant’s roots decay because they’re too wet. Pests, such as scale insects and spider mites, might also attack your cactus. These tiny bugs feed on the plant, which can harm it. Another issue is fungal diseases that may appear if the cactus is kept in very humid conditions. You should watch for signs like soft spots on the cactus or unusual growths. By spotting these problems early, you can take steps to help your cactus stay healthy.

Toxicity

Cylindropuntia cactus, also known as cholla, is generally not toxic. This means it won’t poison you or your pets if it gets touched or accidentally ingested. However, the spines can cause physical harm. They are sharp and can stick to the skin, so handle them with care. If the spines get under your skin, they can be painful and hard to remove. Remember, while the cactus itself isn’t poisonous, the spines can lead to injury and infection if not treated properly. Always use gloves when handling your cactus to keep safe.