Tree cholla
Cylindropuntia imbricata · Cactaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around tree cholla and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Branching cactus, Tree cholla
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Type
- Shrubby succulent
- Adult size
- 2 to 4 m tall, 1.5 to 2.5 m wide
- Flowering
- Summer (June to August), bright red flowers
- Hardiness
- Down to -10°C once established
- Growth rate
- Moderate to fast
- Origin
- Mexico, arid and semi-arid regions
Care
Watering
Water moderately during the growing season (spring-summer), allowing the soil to dry between waterings. In fall and winter, drastically reduce watering or stop altogether. Excellent drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Light and exposure
Place your Cylindropuntia in full sun, at least 6 to 8 hours per day. Sunny exposure promotes compact growth and abundant flowering. Indoors, position it near a well-oriented window.
Soil and substrate
Use cactus or succulent-specific potting mix enriched with coarse sand or perlite to ensure maximum drainage. Poor, well-aerated soil suits this species perfectly.
Fertilizing
Apply diluted cactus and succulent fertilizer once a month during the growing season (April to September). Stop feeding completely in fall and winter to allow natural dormancy.
Pruning and maintenance
No real pruning is necessary, except to remove damaged or diseased segments. Remove them at the base using a clean, disinfected tool. Let the wound dry for a few days before watering.
Pests and diseases
Watch for mealybugs and spider mites indoors. Excess moisture or poor drainage causes fungal rot. Ensure good air circulation and respect dry periods between waterings.
Did you know?
Cylindropuntia imbricata, native to Mexico, has naturalized in Spain and other Mediterranean regions where it has adapted remarkably well. In Andalusia, it has become so abundant that it's almost taken for a native species. Its stunning scarlet-red flowers attract hummingbirds and pollinators in arid environments.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring, once all risk of frost has gone. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: from April to June.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Opuntia basilarisOpuntia basilaris
- Ferocactus wislizeniFerocactus wislizeni
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.