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Teddy-Bear Cholla

Cylindropuntia bigelovii

Details & Attributes


Plant Type(s) Cactus, succulent, perennial
Native to Arizona Yes!
Water Needs Low
Sun Full sun
Pollinators Bees
Has Spines Yes
Size
In relative feet, width by height
4 × 3
Flowering Season March-June
Flower Color Green
Minimum Temperature Range 15-20 °F
Leaf Description Spines
Fruit Spiny and juicy
Longevity
In years
20
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Range Map View SEINet Range Map
Elevation Range 1000-3000 ft.
Description This species is perhaps the most feared of all cholla species. Teddy Bear cholla is notorious for its ability to detach spiny stem segments on to passers-by. For this reason plantings should be placed far from heavily traffic areas. However, this should not deter gardeners from utilizing this plant in open spaces, where its straw colored spines will glow in sunlight. If you have a natural area outside of the fence with Palo Verdes, Saguaros, Jojoba, and various cacti species than this could be a great addition if not already present. Also a fantastic security planting.