Care of the cacti Cylindropuntia arbuscula or Arizona pencil cholla |
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The genus Cylindropuntia, family Cactaceae, includes 35 species of cacti native to Mexico and the USA. Some species are: Cylindropuntia arbuscula, Cylindropuntia fulgida, Cylindropuntia tunicata, Cylindropuntia spinosior, Cylindropuntia rosea, Cylindropuntia prolifera, Cylindropuntia imbricata, Cylindropuntia cholla. Common names: Arizona pencil cholla, Branched pencil cholla, Bush cholla, Pencil cholla. This species is native to Mexico and Arizona. They are highly branched cacti of bushy or arboreal habit that reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. The segments have narrow tubercles and are green with violet hues. They have a long reddish spine and sometimes 2 smaller spines. The flowers are small and yellow or dark red. They bloom in late spring. The fleshy fruits are greenish or yellowish in color. Arizona pencil cholla is used in cactus and succulent gardens, in rockeries, on dry slopes, and to form impenetrable barriers. Cylindropuntia arbuscula needs full sun exposure and a warm, dry climate. It resists occasional frosts. Branched pencil cholla grows on sandy or stony soils with excellent drainage. Bush cholla is a very drought resistant plant that needs moderate watering waiting for the substrate to dry completely. Do not water in winter. Cylindropuntia arbuscula does not need fertilizer. Prune dry stems in any season of the year. Pencil cholla is a plant resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to the accumulation of water in the roots. Cylindropuntia arbuscula is propagated from seeds sown in spring and by cuttings that are allowed to dry a few days before planting. |
Images of the cacti Cylindropuntia arbuscula or Arizona pencil cholla |
 Cylindropuntia arbuscula |