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Description
Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa, commonly known as the Golden Cholla, is a species of cactus native to the arid regions of southwestern North America. This plant is characterized by its cylindrical stems covered with golden spines. The flowers of the Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa are usually pinkish-purple in color and bloom in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Cylindropuntia |
Appearance
The Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa is a medium-sized cactus that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide. The stems of this plant are cylindrical in shape and covered with golden spines. The spines are approximately 1 inch long and are arranged in clusters. The flowers of the Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa are usually pinkish-purple in color and bloom in the spring. The fruit of this plant is a small, dry, and spiny berry that is edible but not very flavorful.
Care Guide
The Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:
- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water only when the soil is completely dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents.
- Sunlight: This plant requires full sun to thrive. Place it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Cochineal Scale: This pest appears as small white dots on the plant and can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause discoloration and distortion of the plant. Use a miticide to control them.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can cause root rot in this plant. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-draining and only water when the soil is completely dry.
Habitat
The Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa is native to the arid regions of southwestern North America, including California, Nevada, Arizona, and Mexico. This plant is commonly found in desert environments, particularly in rocky or sandy areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa a good choice for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, this plant is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance.
Q: Can the fruit of the Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible but not very flavorful.
Q: How often should I water my Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa?
A: Water only when the soil is completely dry.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Cylindropuntia fulgida
- Cylindropuntia imbricata
- Cylindropuntia leptocaulis
- Cylindropuntia ramosissima
References
- “Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed October 24, 2021. https://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/CYLINDROPUNTIA/Cylindropuntia_echinocarpa/Cylindropuntia_echinocarpa/Cylindropuntia_echinocarpa.htm.
- “Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed October 24, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:131227-1.
- “Golden Cholla (Cylindropuntia Echinocarpa).” DesertUSA. Accessed October 24, 2021. https://www.desertusa.com/flora/golden-cholla.html.
