Branched Pencil Cholla
(Cylindropuntia ramosissima)
Branched Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia ramosissima)
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CK Kelly
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
CK Kelly
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: CK Kelly | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: CK Kelly | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2019-06-19T21:27:55Z |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Cylindropuntia ramosissima, commonly known as Branched Pencil Cholla, is an evergreen succulent shrub native to the arid regions of the Southwestern United States and Northwestern Mexico, particularly found in desert flats, slopes, and washes. This cactus can reach up to 2 meters in height and is characterized by its many narrow, cylindrical, green branches that turn gray as they age. The branches are segmented and bear squarish, flat tubercles with few or sometimes a single long, straight spine. The flowers, which bloom in late spring to early summer, are small and can be orange, pink, or brownish, adding a subtle splash of color to the landscape. The fruit is a small, dry, spiny body up to 2 centimeters long, which is not particularly ornamental.
Branched Pencil Cholla is valued for its unique, sculptural form and its adaptability to extremely arid conditions, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also used as a barrier plant due to its spiny nature. This cactus requires minimal maintenance and thrives in full sun with very low water needs, preferring well-drained soils. While it is generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Gardeners should handle this plant with care due to its spines and ensure it is not planted in areas with heavy foot traffic to avoid injury.CC BY-SA 4.0
Branched Pencil Cholla is valued for its unique, sculptural form and its adaptability to extremely arid conditions, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also used as a barrier plant due to its spiny nature. This cactus requires minimal maintenance and thrives in full sun with very low water needs, preferring well-drained soils. While it is generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Gardeners should handle this plant with care due to its spines and ensure it is not planted in areas with heavy foot traffic to avoid injury.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub, Succulent
- Height: 2-5 feet
- Width: 2-5 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: Brown, Orange, Pink, Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Very Low, Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden
Natural Habitat
Native to desert flats, slopes, and washes in the Southwestern United States and Northwestern Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: Diamond Cholla
Scientific Names: Cylindropuntia ramosissima , Opuntia ramosissima , Opuntia tessellata , Cylindropuntia ramosissima var. cristata , Grusonia ramosissima , Opuntia tesselata var. cristata , Opuntia tessellata subsp. cristata
GBIF Accepted Name: Cylindropuntia ramosissima (Engelm.) F.M.Knuth