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Pencil Cholla

Cylindropuntia Arbuscula

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Overview

The Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia arbuscula) is a compact, branching cactus native to the arid regions of the Southwest. It reaches up to 5 feet tall, with slender, green to purple stems, each about 0.5 inches in diameter. In late spring, it blooms with yellow-green flowers followed by spiny fruits. It's perfect for xeriscapes, requiring minimal water and full sun, and provides excellent texture contrast in desert-themed gardens.

Sun FullWater Low, Very LowZones 9–10Type Perennial, ShrubClimate Arid
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — Following the flowering season; perennial / shrub with green and yellow blooms

Culture

Sun
Full
Water
Low, Very Low
USDA zones
9–10

Shape & size

Classification

Type
Perennial, Shrub
Family
Cactaceae
Climate
Arid

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Photos (104)

Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — or as a textural accent in drought-tolerant landscapes; are a striking contrast against its green to purplish stems
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — This perennial shrub is distinctive for its slender
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — are a striking contrast against its green to purplish stems; to accommodate its mature spread and, image 79
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — it's essential to allow for adequate spacing
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — requiring minimal water and full sun; scientifically known as Cylindropuntia arbuscula
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — branching cactus native to the arid regions of the Southwest
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — Plant in a location that receives full sun exposure to promote healthy growth and prolific blooming
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — green and yellow flowers in the garden; plant in a location that receives full sun exposure to promote healthy
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — perennial / shrub for full
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — is useful for safe long-term enjoyment
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — which typically blossom in late spring to early summer, image 78
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — perennial / shrub with green and yellow blooms
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — The Pencil Cholla's yellow-green flowers
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — adding further visual interest.<br><br>When incorporating into landscape design
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — The Pencil Cholla's unique form makes it a focal point in rock gardens; this perennial shrub is distinctive for its
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — perennial / shrub for full; the Pencil Cholla is a reliable and intriguing choice for any water-wise garden design
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — to accommodate its mature spread and prevent accidental contact with its sharp spines; it reaches up to 5 feet tall
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — which resemble the shape of pencils; the Pencil Cholla requires minimal water once established
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — adding further visual interest.<br><br>When incorporating into landscape design; thriving in USDA, image 82
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — Following the flowering season; perennial / shrub with green and yellow blooms, image 80
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — perennial / shrub with green and yellow blooms; it's essential to allow for adequate spacing
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — This perennial shrub is distinctive for its slender; it's perfect for xeriscapes, image 72
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — scientifically known as Cylindropuntia arbuscula; roughly 4 to 6 feet apart, image 70
Pencil Cholla (Cylindropuntia Arbuscula) — yellow fruits which remain attached; requiring minimal water and full sun
Photographs by 11 contributors

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