Teddy Bear Cholla

opuntia phaeacantha

Also known as: ["Cane Cholla","Brown Cholla"]

Family: Cactaceae Genus: Opuntia Category: Succulents & Cacti

Overview

A species of cactus native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, known for its dense, golden spines that resemble a teddy bear's fur.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Cactaceae
Genus: Opuntia
Botanical Name: Opuntia phaeacantha

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Succulents & Cacti
  • Suitable Location: rock garden, xeriscaped area, or container in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–48°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or unwanted growth.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun by providing partial shade midday.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; avoid sudden exposure to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; for indoor placement, use a south-facing window.

Warning Signs: Wilting despite moist soil, soft or mushy pads, or black/brown spots indicate overwatering or poor drainage.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; ensure unobstructed sunlight exposure.

Watering

every 2–3 weeks, less in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and growth phase.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or rocky soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Use gritty soil mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil.

Temperature

Ideal range 70–100°F (21–38°C); tolerates brief frosts down to 20°F (-6°C) but prefers warm conditions.

Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer

Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings ( pads ); division of offsets.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select healthy pad.
  2. Let it callus for 1–2 days.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Water sparingly until roots form.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–80°F), bright indirect light, high humidity (60–70%) for initial rooting.

Medium

Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.

Hormone

Not necessary but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 1–3 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining soil mix.

Quick Tips

Allow pads to callus before planting; use sterile tools to prevent rot; keep soil lightly moist.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut pads at the base with clean, sharp tools; allow cuts to callus before heavy rain.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged pads to improve aesthetics and health; control size by removing overgrown pads.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; cut at base; allow callusing; dispose of removed pads properly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare well-draining soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season; avoid overhead watering.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting the pads; water in the morning to allow evaporation; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to deliver water directly to the soil without wetting the pads.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply during active growth (spring-summer) every 1–2 weeks, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce or cease watering in winter dormancy.

Soil Improvement

Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting mix; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis or necrosis in extreme cold; stunted growth or sunburn spots in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause pads to shrivel or turn purple; prolonged exposure can lead to tissue damage.

Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors during freezes; use frost cloth for outdoor protection; ensure good air circulation to prevent rot.

Hot Stress

Pads may wilt, scorch, or develop brown spots; excessive heat can stress the plant and reduce vigor.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase air circulation; water deeply but infrequently to avoid heat stress.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of cladodes in Opuntia phaeacantha is not commonly reported, as the plant typically exhibits green tissue; however, nutrient deficiencies or water stress may cause discoloration.

Wilting in Opuntia phaeacantha is uncommon due to its succulent nature, but severe water stress or root damage can cause temporary or permanent wilting.

Leaf spots are not commonly reported on Opuntia phaeacantha, as the plant's cladodes are typically resistant to such infections; however, fungal or bacterial pathogens may occasionally cause discoloration.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Opuntia phaeacantha if the plant is exposed to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, leading to tissue decay and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are susceptible to mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Opuntia phaeacantha. The primary concern is physical injury from spines or glochids, which can cause significant discomfort and potential complications if lodged in sensitive areas such as the mouth or paws.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy excessive grooming whimpering skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
pads spines glochids
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten or if spines/glochids embedded

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion or physical contact occurs, seek veterinary care. Remove embedded spines or glochids gently to avoid further injury.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Opuntia phaeacantha. The greater risk is physical injury from spines or glochids, which can cause pain, inflammation, and potential secondary infections if not removed promptly.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea pawing at mouth whimpering skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
pads spines glochids
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten or if spines/glochids embedded

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, monitor for symptoms and consult a veterinarian. Remove any embedded spines or glochids carefully.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Opuntia phaeacantha, commonly known as the tulip prickly pear, contains oxalic acid and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The primary hazard, however, arises from its physical defenses—spines and microscopic glochids—that can embed in the skin or mucous membranes, leading to irritation and inflammation.

⚠️ Symptoms:
mild nausea stomach discomfort skin irritation embedded spines or glochids
🌿 Toxic Parts:
pads spines glochids
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Handle with care; wear gloves when pruning or handling. If ingested, seek medical advice if symptoms persist. Remove embedded spines or glochids carefully to avoid further irritation.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I propagate Opuntia phaeacantha?

A: Propagate by cutting off a pad, letting it callous for a few days, then planting it in well-draining soil.

Q: Is Opuntia phaeacantha safe for pets?

A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats, though its spines can cause physical injury.

Q: Why are the pads turning yellow?

A: Yellowing pads may indicate overwatering or root rot; ensure the plant has excellent drainage.

Quick Reference
Family: Cactaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 2–3 weeks, less in win
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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