The Christmas Cholla (Cylindropuntia leptocaulis), also known as Pencil Cholla, is a slender, shrubby native cactus well-suited for Tucson's arid landscapes. Its thin, green pencil-like stems are adorned with small spines and produce bright red berries in winter, adding seasonal color and interest. This hardy cactus thrives in full sun, requires minimal water, and provides habitat and food for desert wildlife, including birds and small mammals. Perfect for naturalistic desert gardens or wildlife-friendly landscapes, the Desert Christmas Cactus combines resilience with year-round beauty, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance, water-wise gardening in Tucson.
Cylindropuntia leptocaulis
Cylindropuntia leptocaulis
Christmas Cholla
The Christmas Cholla (Cylindropuntia leptocaulis), also known as Pencil Cholla, is a slender, shrubby native cactus well-suited for Tucson's arid landscapes. Its thin, green pencil-like stems are adorned with small spines and produce bright red berries in winter, adding seasonal color and interest. This hardy cactus thrives in full sun, requires minimal water, and provides habitat and food for desert wildlife, including birds and small mammals. Perfect for naturalistic desert gardens or wildlife-friendly landscapes, the Desert Christmas Cactus combines resilience with year-round beauty, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance, water-wise gardening in Tucson.
| Plant Type | Native, Cactus / Succulent |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Water Needs | Low |
| Flower Color | Yellow |
| Flower Season | Winter |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Height | 4-6 ft |
| Spread | 2-6 ft |
| Spacing | 4 ft |
| Characteristics | Fruit & Berries |
| Attracts | Bees, Birds, Pollinators, Wildlife |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Garden Uses | Specimen |
| Tolerance | Drought, Dry Soil, Heat, Rocky Soil |
| Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
| Soil PH | Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
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This catalog is for reference purposes. Plants may not be available at all times in the nursery. Please check with our store for current availability.
