Cane Cholla
cylindropuntia imbricata
Also known as: ["Candelaria","Tree Cholla"]
Overview
A tall, tree-like cactus with cylindrical, segmented stems and sharp spines, native to arid regions of North America.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Cylindropuntia |
| Botanical Name: | Cylindropuntia imbricata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: xeriscaped garden, rock garden, or container in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–45°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus mix with coarse sand or perlite; minimal organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 years or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may etiolate or reduce flowering.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure outdoor placement receives unobstructed light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use terra cotta pots for better aeration; avoid overwatering; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 70–100°F (21–38°C); tolerates brief dips to 20°F (-6°C) but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good airflow in hot conditions.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months with balanced cactus fertilizer during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (cladodes); occasionally by seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem segment.
- Let cut end callous for 1–2 days.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not waterlogged.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm (70–85°F), high humidity (60–70%), bright indirect light, and good air circulation.
Medium
Cactus mix or perlite/sand mix with minimal organic matter.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a rooting hormone with cytokinin.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot within 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use gloves to handle spines; ensure callusing before planting; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems cleanly at a node; avoid tearing to prevent injury or infection.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems; shape for aesthetic appeal; control size in containers.
Tools
Sterile pruning shears, gloves, protective eyewear.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; wear protection; cut cleanly; dispose of clippings safely.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure bottom drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh cactus mix; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 3–4 years or when roots fill container; essential for container-grown plants to prevent root binding.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure drainage; handle roots gently; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even saturation without pooling; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer); reduce to every 3–4 weeks in fall/winter. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to commercial potting mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis in extreme heat; stunted growth or blackened stems in cold stress; bud drop or wilting in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage or tissue death in prolonged cold; increases susceptibility to fungal infections.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location or greenhouse in frost; use frost cloth for outdoor plants; ensure good air circulation to prevent rot.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl or drop (if present); stems may become brittle; increased water demand can lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; mist foliage (if applicable) to cool ambient air.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced cactus fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCylindropuntia imbricata poses a risk to cats primarily through mechanical injury caused by its spines and glochids. The plant lacks significant chemical toxicity, but ingestion can lead to physical trauma in the oral and gastrointestinal regions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe spines and glochids of Cylindropuntia imbricata can cause mechanical injury to dogs if ingested. While not chemically toxic, the physical nature of the plant can lead to injury of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCylindropuntia imbricata, commonly known as the cane cholla, contains spines and microscopic glochids that can cause mechanical injury and irritation upon ingestion. The plant does not produce significant chemical toxins, but physical damage to the oral cavity, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract can occur.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Cylindropuntia imbricata?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks depending on climate.
Q: Can Cylindropuntia imbricata be grown indoors?
A: It is best suited for outdoor cultivation in full sun, but can be grown indoors in a very bright, sunny location with excellent drainage.
Q: Is Cylindropuntia imbricata toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic if ingested due to its spines and latex-like sap, but the primary hazard is physical injury from the spines.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during growi |
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