Silver Cholla
Silver cholla is native to our Colorado Desert and has a long history with the native people and wildlife of the region.
The cholla adapted to heat and drought by protecting itself with numerous prickly spines, but that didn’t stop the native people from devising ways to cook its flowers and cactus pads.
Another example is the small cactus wren that found ways to shelter and seek protection from predators by nesting in its branches.
As for landscaping uses, the most obvious advantage is its adaptation to drought and extreme heat. And for those who can see its beauty- it has the most magnificent glow when it captures the sunlight at dawn and evening.
Botanical name: Cylindropuntia echinocarpa
Other names: Golden cholla, opuntia echinocarpa, silver cholla, Wiggin’s cholla
Silver cholla in detail
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Silver Cholla Appearance
Silver cholla is a shrubby cactus made up of narrow and long segmented pads growing from a single, central trunk.
Slowly reaches about 4-6 feet in height and 3-5 feet in width overall.
The green, cylindrical cactus pads are covered by numerous long, sharp spines that are silver or golden. Silver chollas and golden chollas refer to the same plant (Cylindropuntia echinocarpa).
Very bright, yellow flowers bloom in spring.
Followed by small, dark-colored fruits.
Silver Cholla Landscaping Tips
As a native plant to the Palm Springs region, silver cholla is very easy to grow and requires almost no maintenance. It also performs very well in extreme heat.
Plant in areas where the silver spines can catch the glow of sunrise or sunset.
Keep away from areas with high traffic, pets, and children. Spines come off easily and cling to skin and clothing.
Segmented pads may detach and spread to other parts of the landscape.
Supports native wildlife such as cactus wrens and desert woodrats.
Silver Cholla Origin
Silver cholla is native to our Coachella Valley region as well as other desert regions of eastern California, Arizona, and Nevada
Silver Cholla Care
Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 20 degrees. Does very well in the heat.
Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Silver cholla in 5 gallon container for sale
Silver Cholla Problems
Pests: Minimal pests. Fungal diseases are caused by root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture (especially at the bottom of the cactus)
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin
Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring
Silver Cholla Propagation
Remove silver cholla cactus pads with caution, never getting into direct contact with the plant. We recommend using tongs and thick fabric or newspaper.
Allow the pads to dry for a few days, and then plant in well-draining soil.
FAQ
How much does silver cholla cost?
At our nursery, silver cholla costs $15 for a 1-gallon container, $45 for a 5-gallon container, and $150 for a 15-gallon container.
Prices are subject to change. Please get in touch with us for the most up-to-date pricing information. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
Is silver cholla prickly?
Yes, silver cholla has numerous, long, sharp spines that easily attach to the skin and clothing.
Does silver cholla bloom?
Yes, you will see very bright, yellow flowers when it’s in bloom.
Summary
| SIZE (H X W) | 6 feet x 5 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | Yellow |
| FLOWER SEASON | Spring |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun |
| WATER | Low |
| GROWTH RATE | Slow |
| HARDINESS | 20º F, USDA Zone 9 |
| PRUNING | None |