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 |
View on SEINet | View SEINet Entry |
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. |