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Description
Cylindropuntia Bigelovii, also known as the Teddy Bear Cholla, is a type of cactus that is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is named after John Milton Bigelow, an American botanist who discovered the plant in the mid-1800s. The Teddy Bear Cholla is a perennial plant that can grow up to 8 feet tall and 5 feet wide. It is characterized by its cylindrical stem segments that are covered in dense clusters of spines, which give it a fuzzy appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Cylindropuntia |
Appearance
The Teddy Bear Cholla has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other cacti. Its stem segments are cylindrical and can range in color from green to brown. The spines are arranged in dense clusters and can be up to 2 inches long. The spines are barbed, which makes them difficult to remove if they come into contact with skin or clothing. The plant produces small yellow or green flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers give way to small, edible fruits that are red or green in color.
Care Guide
Caring for the Teddy Bear Cholla requires a bit of attention to detail, but it is not difficult. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
Water: The Teddy Bear Cholla is drought-tolerant and only needs to be watered sparingly. Water the plant deeply once every few weeks during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents.
Soil: Use a well-draining cactus soil mix that is rich in nutrients and has a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
Sunlight: The Teddy Bear Cholla prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate partial shade. Make sure to provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9a to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Teddy Bear Cholla is generally free from pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoid overwatering. If you notice signs of infestation, use a natural insecticide or spray the plant with a solution of water and dish soap. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in soil that does not drain well.
Habitat
The Teddy Bear Cholla is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is commonly found in desert regions, rocky slopes, and dry washes. The plant can tolerate extreme temperatures and is adapted to survive in arid conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Teddy Bear Cholla be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow the Teddy Bear Cholla indoors, it is not recommended. The plant requires full sun exposure and can grow quite large, making it difficult to accommodate in most indoor spaces.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Teddy Bear Cholla?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents.
Q: How do I remove spines from my skin or clothing?
A: Use a comb or tweezers to gently remove the spines. Be careful not to touch the spines with your bare hands, as they can be difficult to remove and may cause irritation.
Q: How long does it take for the Teddy Bear Cholla to grow?
A: The growth rate of the Teddy Bear Cholla varies depending on the growing conditions. It can take several years for the plant to reach its full size.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Cylindropuntia genus include:
- Cylindropuntia fulgida
- Cylindropuntia imbricata
- Cylindropuntia kleiniae
- Cylindropuntia leptocaulis
- Cylindropuntia ramosissima
References
- “Cylindropuntia Bigelovii.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 29 June 2021, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cylindropuntia_bigelovii.
- “Teddy Bear Cholla.” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Teddy%20Bear%20Cholla.php.
- “Cylindropuntia Bigelovii (Teddy Bear Cholla).” World of Succulents, https://worldofsucculents.com/cylindropuntia-bigelovii-teddy-bear-cholla/.
