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    Home»Succulents and Cacti»Cylindropuntia Imbricata (Tree Cholla): Growing And Care Guide

    Cylindropuntia Imbricata (Tree Cholla): Growing And Care Guide

    By Milo MasonDecember 22, 2022
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    Cylindropuntia imbricata, also known as the Tree Cholla or Walking Stick Cholla, is a cactus native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. With its distinctive branching habit and striking appearance, this cactus has become a popular choice for landscaping and gardening in arid regions.

    Cylindropuntia Imbricata (Tree Cholla)
    Cylindropuntia imbricata ( “Cylindropuntia (Opuntia) imbricata” by Matt Lavin is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. )

    This article will explore the Tree Cholla, including its physical characteristics, habitat, and cultural significance. We will also discuss the plant’s potential uses and some of the challenges it poses for those who live near it. Whether you are a gardener, hiker, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world, this Cholla is sure to pique your interest.

    in this article:

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

    About Cylindropuntia imbricata

    The Cylindropuntia imbricata is a spectacular cactus popular in cultivation. It can be a low to densely branched shrub to a large tree-like cactus with a strong central trunk. Depending on where in the growth phase your Tree Cholla is, it may appear vastly different.

    Its distinctive appearance, with branching stems and clusters of spiny, cylindrical segments, makes it a popular choice for use in landscaping and xeriscaping. In its natural habitat, it is found in a variety of arid environments, including desert scrub, chaparral, and grassland. Despite its intimidating appearance, this cactus has fascinating biology and plays an important role in its ecosystem.

    Related:

    Guidance to grow 20 Tall Cactus Plants at Home or Outdoors

    Botanical NameCylindropuntia Imbricata
    Common NameTree Cholla
    FamilyCactaceae
    Plant TypeCactus – Succulents
    OriginSouthwestern United States, Northwestern Mexico
    MaintenanceLow
    Height3-8 feet
    Width0.8 feet
    LightBright light
    Bloom seasonSpring, Summer
    Water needsLow
    SoilWell-Drained
    TolerantDrought, Dry soil
    ToxicityNon-Toxic
    Hardiness (USDA)5-11

    Tree Cholla Care

    The Tree Cholla is generally considered easy to care for as a cactus, especially compared to other plants. It has a low water requirement and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, making it a good choice for beginners. However, there are a few things to remember when caring for this plant.

    Light

    The Tree Cholla is a sun-loving plant that requires plenty of bright light to thrive. In its natural habitat, it can be found growing in open, sunny areas, such as on rocky slopes and in desert scrublands. When grown in cultivation, it is best to provide the plant with as much direct sunlight as feasible, at least six hours per day.

    Soil

    A commercial cactus mix or a mixture of regular potting soil and sand or perlite can be used to provide this cactus with the well-draining soil it needs. It is important to avoid using heavy, clay-based soils, as these can hold too much moisture and cause the plant to rot. To ensure good drainage, it is also a good idea to mix in some coarse sand or gravel to the soil or to plant the cactus in a raised bed or on a slope.

    Water

    The Tree Cholla is a low-water plant that does not require frequent watering. In its natural habitat, it is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can survive on very little moisture. When grown in cultivation, it is important to provide the plant with enough water to keep it healthy but not so much that it becomes waterlogged.

    Also, remember to reduce watering in the winter.

    Temperature

    A great factor of why the Tree Cholla is so loved is because of its ability to survive harsh colds with ease. It can survive as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit (-28 C) with ease. The same holds for the other extreme of temperature.

    Humidity

    Tree Cholla does not appreciate high humidity. It may be damaged by excessively moist conditions, as this can cause the plant to rot or develop other problems. Instead, it is best to provide the plant with low to moderate humidity, similar to what it would experience in its natural habitat.

    Fertilizer

    The Tree Cholla is a cactus that does not require much fertilizer to thrive. It is adapted to growing in nutrient-poor soils and can easily extract the nutrients it needs from even poor soils. When grown in cultivation, it is important to provide the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to ensure it receives the nutrients it needs to grow properly.

    Cylindropuntia Imbricata Cheat Sheet
    Cylindropuntia imbricata Cheat Sheet ( “cane cholla Cylindropuntia imbricata” by Paul and Jill is licensed under CC BY 2.0. )

    Pruning

    If you do need to prune the Tree Cholla, it is important to use clean, sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant’s branches at a time, as this can stress the plant and reduce its ability to grow.

    Potting and Repotting Tree Cholla

    When potting Tree Cholla, choosing a container with drainage holes is important to prevent the plant from becoming waterlogged. A well-draining cactus potting mix is also essential, as Tree Cholla is sensitive to excess moisture. When repotting, it’s best to do so in the spring or early summer, when the cactus is actively growing.

    Prepare

    • Prepare the pot. The pot should be at least one-third larger than the current container, and the drainage holes should be open.
    • Prepare the soil. Use a well-draining soil mix that contains plenty of organic material.
    • Choose the spot. The plant can be placed in full sun or partial shade.
    • Gather the tools. A sharp knife, potting soil, and a container.

    How to Repot (Step-by-Step)

    1. Water the cactus thoroughly the day before repotting to make removing it from its old pot easier.
    2. Carefully remove the cactus from its old pot, not damaging the roots.
    3. Place the cactus in the new pot, making sure that the base of the cactus is flush with the soil surface.
    4. Add more potting mix, tamping it gently to secure the plant in place.
    5. Water the plant well, allowing the excess water to drain out of the bottom of the pot.

    Propagating Cylindropuntia imbricata (Step-by-Step)

    Propagating Tree Cholla by stem division is a relatively simple process.

    1. Choose a healthy, mature plant that has multiple stems.
    2. Carefully cut one of the stems from the plant using a sharp, sterilized knife or pruning shears.
    3. Cut the stem into smaller segments.
    4. Plant the stem segments in a well-draining cactus potting mix, placing them in the soil, so the segments are half-buried.
    5. Water the soil gently, careful not to disturb the newly planted segments.
    6. Place the container in a location with plenty of light.
    7. Monitor the planted segments for new growth, and adjust watering as needed.

    Related:

    Growing and Care guide for Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa (Silver Cholla)

    Cylindropuntia Imbricata In Forest
    Cylindropuntia imbricata in forest ( “Cylindropuntia (Opuntia) imbricata” by Matt Lavin is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. )

    Blooms

    Cylindropuntia imbricata produces bright pink and purple flowers in the spring and summer. These flowers are small and inconspicuous, but they are attractive to pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds.

    Toxicity

    Tree Cholla is not known to be toxic to humans or animals. However, the plant’s spiny, cylindrical segments can cause irritation or injury if they come into contact with the skin. In addition, the plant’s spines can easily become embedded in the skin or fur of animals, which can cause discomfort and potentially lead to infection.

    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

    Common pests that may affect Tree Cholla include scale insects and mealybugs. These pests feed on the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves and reduced flowering. To treat an infestation of scale insects or mealybugs, it’s important to carefully inspect the plant and remove any visible pests by hand. Alternatively, you can use a gentle insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to kill the pests.

    To prevent pests from infesting your plant, it’s important to provide the plant with proper care, including adequate light, water, and nutrients. In addition, regularly inspecting the plant for signs of pests and taking action as needed can help to prevent infestations from becoming severe.

    AVOID

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

    Common Problems

    • Overwatering: Overwatering can be a major problem for Tree Cholla, as the plant is sensitive to excess moisture. Overwatering can cause the plant’s roots to rot, leading to yellowing and wilting of the leaves and, in severe cases, death of the plant. To avoid overwatering, it’s important to provide Tree Cholla with well-draining soil and to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. In addition, it’s best to water the plant at the base, avoiding the leaves and stems, to prevent the plant from becoming waterlogged.
    • Overfertilization: Overfertilization can also be a problem for Tree Cholla, as the plant is sensitive to excess nutrients. Overfertilization can cause the plant’s leaves and stems to turn yellow and wilt. To avoid overfertilization, it’s important to use a balanced fertilizer according to the package instructions.

    FAQ

    Tree Cholla can be propagated by stem division, which involves cutting a stem from a mature plant and planting the segments in well-draining soil. With proper care, the stem segments should take root and form new plants.

    The lifespan of Tree Cholla, or Cylindropuntia imbricata, can vary depending on various conditions. Tree Cholla can live in its natural habitat for many years, with some individuals surviving for decades or longer. In cultivation, Tree Cholla may have a shorter lifespan, but it can still thrive for several years with proper care. In general, it’s difficult to predict the exact lifespan of Tree Cholla, as it can vary depending on various factors.

    Tree Cholla is generally resistant to pests and diseases but can be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs under certain conditions.

    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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