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    Home»Succulents and Cacti»Cylindropuntia Bigelovii (Teddybear Cholla): Growing And Care Guide

    Cylindropuntia Bigelovii (Teddybear Cholla): Growing And Care Guide

    By Milo MasonJanuary 4, 2023
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    If you like plants, the desert, or just being outside in general, take a look at the adorably ferocious Teddybear cholla (Cylindropuntia bigelovii).

    Cylindropuntia Bigelovii (Teddybear Cholla)
    Cylindropuntia bigelovii (teddybear cholla) ( by author nflane via depositphotos )

    In this article, we will explore the characteristics and habitat of the Teddybear Cholla, as well as its cultural significance and potential uses.

    in this article:

    • care
    • pruning
    • repotting
    • propagation
    • blooms
    • pests
    • common-problems

    About Cylindropuntia bigelovii

    The Cylindropuntia bigelovii (Teddybear Cholla) is a slow-growing, small erect tree-like cactus commonly found in the Southwestern United States. It is easy to grow and drought tolerant. This cactus is known for its distinctive appearance, with its dense covering of spines resembling a teddy bear’s fur. It is also recognized for its unique ability to detach from its stem and attach to animals or any unsuspecting passersby, earning it the nickname “jumping cholla.”

    A mature plant will have a few central stems that are covered with short, stiff bristles that form dense clumps along its length.

    Related:

    Different types of Cacti

    Botanical NameCylindropuntia Bigelovii
    Common NameTeddybear Cholla
    FamilyCactaceae
    Plant TypeCactus – Succulent
    OriginSouthwestern United States
    MaintenanceLow
    Height3 – 8 feet
    Width3 – 8 feet
    LightDirect sunlight
    Bloom seasonSpring, Summer
    Water needsLow
    SoilWell-Drained
    TolerantDrought
    ToxicityNon-Toxic
    Hardiness (USDA)9-11

    Teddybear Cholla Care

    The Teddy Bear Cholla is a slow-growing plant that requires little maintenance. Amateur cactus enthusiasts can grow the Teddy Bear Cactus in a container or garden bed.

    Light

    In its natural habitat, it receives direct sunlight for most of the day, with little protection from the hot desert sun. As a result, the cactus has adapted to thrive in these conditions and can tolerate extended periods of direct sunlight.

    Soil

    t is best to provide a well-draining soil mixture that mimics its natural habitat in a domestic setting. A cactus potting mix, which is readily available at most gardening stores, would be a good option. Alternatively, you can create your own mixture by combining equal parts of sand, loam, and compost.

    It is important to avoid using heavy, clay-based soils, as they retain too much moisture and can lead to root rot.

    Water

    During the growing season, which typically occurs from spring to fall, the cactus should be watered deeply and allowed to dry out completely before watering again. In the winter, when dormancy is in full swing, watering can be reduced to once every few weeks or as needed to prevent the soil from completely drying out.

    Temperature

    The best temperature for a cactus is between 60 degrees Fahrenheit and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature drops below 55 degrees, it will begin to lose its color and stop growing.

    Humidity

    The Teddybear Cholla is native to the desert, where humidity levels are low for much of the year. As a result, the cactus is adapted to grow in these dry conditions and does not require high humidity levels to thrive. High humidity levels can lead to problems, such as root rot, which can harm the cactus.

    Fertilizer

    Cactus fertilizer is specially formulated to provide the cactus with the essential nutrients it needs in a form that is easy for the plant to absorb.

    It is typically applied at half the recommended strength and applied every 2-4 weeks during the spring season. It is important to avoid overfertilizing the cactus, as this can lead to excessive growth and other problems.

    Cylindropuntia Bigelovii (Teddybear Cholla) Cheat Sheet
    Cylindropuntia bigelovii (teddybear cholla) cheat sheet ( by author yayimages via depositphotos )

    Pruning

    The Teddybear Cholla is a slow-growing cactus and does not require frequent pruning. In fact, it is best to avoid pruning the cactus unless it is necessary. If pruning is necessary, it should be done carefully, using a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears.

    Potting and Repotting Teddybear Cholla

    The Teddybear Cholla is a slow-growing cactus and does not require frequent repotting. In fact, it is best to avoid repotting the cactus unless it is necessary, as this can stress the plant and hinder its growth. If repotting is necessary, it should be carried out carefully in the spring, when the cactus is starting its new growth cycle.

    Prepare

    • Prepare the soil by adding organic matter and a slow-release fertilizer. The cactus needs an open pot that allows air to circulate it.
    • Prepare the pot. The container should be large enough to allow the cactus room to grow and should have drainage holes in the bottom.
    • Choose the spot. The cactus needs a sunny location that is protected from strong winds.
    • Gather the tools. You will need a small shovel and trowel, a container to hold the cactus potting mix, and a pair of gloves.

    How to Repot (Step-by-Step)

    1. Water the cactus thoroughly the day before repotting to make removing it from its current pot easier.
    2. Gently remove the cactus from its current pot and shake off any excess soil.
    3. Trim any damaged or diseased roots using a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears.
    4. Place the plant in a new pot slightly larger than its current pot, using a well-draining soil mixture such as a cactus potting mix.
    5. Firm the soil gently around the plant to secure it in place.
    6. Water the plant thoroughly after repotting, and then place it in a location that receives plenty of sunlight.
    7. Monitor the plant closely for the first few weeks after repotting, and water as needed to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

    Propagating Cylindropuntia bigelovii by Stem Cuttings (Step-by-Step)

    The Teddybear Cholla can be propagated through stem cuttings. To propagate the cactus through stem cuttings, follow these steps:

    1. Using a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears, take a stem cutting from a healthy portion of the Teddybear Cholla, making sure to include at least two segments with a joint.
    2. Allow the cutting to dry out for a few days until a callus forms over the cut end.
    3. Fill a small pot with a well-draining soil mixture, such as a cactus potting mix.
    4. Plant the cutting in the soil, making sure to bury the joint at least 1-2 inches deep.
    5. Water the cutting thoroughly, and then place it in a location that receives a good amount of sunlight.
    6. Monitor the cutting closely and water as needed to keep the potting medium slightly moist but not soggy.
    7. Once the cutting has rooted and established itself in the soil, it can be gradually acclimated to direct sunlight and treated as a mature Teddybear Cholla plant.

    Related:

    Growing and Care Guide for Cylindropuntia Imbricata (Tree Cholla)

    Cylindropuntia Bigelovii In Sunlight
    Cylindropuntia bigelovii in sunlight ( By dhanscom via depositphotos )

    Blooms

    The Teddybear Cholla is known for its beautiful, showy flowers, which bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are typically yellow or green in color with a dash of purple mixed in. They are produced on the ends of the cactus’s stems and are surrounded by a ring of spines, which provides protection for the flowers.

    Toxicity

    The Teddybear Cholla is not known to be toxic to humans or animals. However, it is imperitive to note that the plant’s spines can be sharp and can cause irritation or injury if they come into contact with the skin.

    NOTE: This page is not intended as a substitute for veterinary advice. The toxicity of an ingested substance varies depending on the amount ingested, the animal’s weight, and its sensitivity to specific allergens. Contact your veterinarian or local animal poison control center immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a toxic substance.

    Common Pests

    The Teddybear Cholla is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, like other cacti, it can be susceptible to attack by certain pests, such as mealybugs and aphids, which feed on the plant’s tissue and can cause damage.

    These pests can be treated with rubbing alcohol or neem oil solution. If using insecticide, it is important to apply it carefully, making sure to cover all areas of the cactus and avoid disturbing the plant’s flowers or fruit.

    Additionally, regular cactus monitoring can help identify pest infestations early, allowing for timely treatment and preventing the pests from causing significant damage.

    AVOID

    • Overwatering
    • Placing under harsh sunlight
    • Using poorly drained potting mediums
    • Fertilizing during dormancy

    Common Problems

    • Overwatering: Overwatering can occur when the cactus is watered too frequently or when the soil does not drain well, leading to moisture accumulation around the plant’s roots. This can cause the roots to rot, which can be harmful to the cactus. To prevent overwatering, it is important to provide the cactus with well-draining soil and to water the plant deeply, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. It is also important to avoid watering the cactus during the winter, when it is dormant.
    • Sunburn: Sunburn can occur when the cactus is exposed to intense sunlight for an extended period of time. This can cause the plant’s tissue to become damaged, leading to discoloration and other problems. To prevent sunburn, it is important to provide the cactus with some protection from intense afternoon sunlight, especially in the summer months.
    • Overfertilization: Overfertilization can occur when the cactus is given too much fertilizer, leading to excessive growth and reduced resistance to pests and diseases. To prevent overfertilization, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying fertilizer to the cactus and to avoid applying too much fertilizer.

    FAQ

    The Teddybear Cholla is so named because of its appearance, which is said to resemble a teddy bear. The cactus has a distinctive, rounded shape, with soft, fluffy-looking spines that are similar in color to a teddy bear’s fur.

    The Teddybear Cholla is a long-lived plant and can survive for many years in the right conditions. In cultivation, some individuals have been known to live for over 20 years. But, it will depend on the care it receives, and it is possible for the plant to live for many years with proper care and attention.

    Yes, the Teddybear Cholla is the same as the Jumping Cholla. Both names refer to the same plant, and they are often used interchangeably in common parlance.

    1. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants. ASPCA
    2. Royal Horticultural Society. RHS
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    Milo Mason

    Milo Mason is a self-proclaimed plant whisperer. With a passion for gardening, houseplants, and all things outdoors, Milo has been cultivating indoor plants for the past five years with an interest in perennials and succulents. He enjoys sharing his insights and research on plant species when it comes to care tips.

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