Cylindropuntia fulgida (Jumping Cholla)

Cylindropuntia fulgida, commonly known as the Chain Fruit Cholla or Jumping Cholla, is a striking cactus native to the deserts of the southwestern United States and Mexico. This species is known for its unique habit of producing chains of fruit, as well as its barbed spines that can easily latch onto people or animals. 

Description

The Chain Fruit Cholla is a distinctive cactus with cylindrical, segmented stems covered in sharp, barbed spines. These spines are encased in a papery sheath that gives the plant a fuzzy or silvery appearance. One of its most unique features is its fruit, which forms long chains that can persist on the plant for several years, hence the name Chain Fruit Cholla. This cactus often forms dense thickets, especially in desert environments, making it an important part of the landscape.

Native Habitat

Cylindropuntia fulgida is native to the Sonoran Desert in the southwestern United States, including Arizona, parts of California and New Mexico, and northwestern Mexico. It thrives in hot, arid environments, especially in sandy or rocky soils. It is most commonly found in desert flats, slopes, and washes, where it can take advantage of the minimal rainfall and intense sunlight typical of these regions.

Jumping Cholla is a member of the Cactaceae family, which also includes the popular Chrismas cactus, prickly pear (opuntia), pincushion cactus (mammillaria), and the iconic saguaro cactus and San Pedro cactus.

Plant Type and Habit

Jumping Cholla is a succulent cactus. It grows as a multi-branched shrub or small tree, with its segmented, cylindrical stems forming dense thickets in the wild.

Plant Size

Jumping Cholla can grow into a substantial plant. It typically reaches 6 to 13 feet (2 to 4 meters) in height, with a nearly equal spread, in its native habitat, though it can grow taller under ideal conditions. 

Jumping Cholla, Ocotillo, Saguaro Cactus

Flowers

The flowers are relatively small but quite striking. They are typically pink or pale purple, with numerous petals forming a cup-like shape. These flowers appear on the ends of the cactus’s branches and provide a pop of color against the plant’s otherwise muted green and brown tones. The bloom time is typically in late spring to early fall.

Fruits

The fruit of Cylindropuntia fulgida is one of its most defining characteristics. After the flowers are pollinated, the cactus produces fleshy, green to yellow fruits that form in long chains. These fruits can persist on the plant for several years, with new fruit developing on top of older ones, creating long, dangling chains. While the fruits are technically edible, they are not commonly consumed due to their spiny surface.

Stems and Spines

Like most cacti, Jumping Cholla does not have traditional leaves. Instead, its cylindrical stems serve as the primary photosynthetic organs. These stems are covered in barbed spines that protect the plant from herbivores and help reduce water loss by shading the plant’s surface.

The Jumping Cholla gets its name from how its spines detach easily upon contact, making it seem like the segments “jump” onto people or animals.

Hardiness

Cylindropuntia fulgida is hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 5°F (-15°C) for short periods. However, like most desert plants, it is sensitive to prolonged frost and cold. In areas where temperatures drop below this range, it is best to provide protection or grow the plant in a container that can be moved indoors during winter.

Uses

• Ornamental: The Jumping Cholla is often used in desert landscaping for its unique structure, beautiful flowers, and unusual fruit chains.
• Crafts: The dried skeleton of the Cholla is used in various crafts and furniture due to its intricate, wood-like structure.
• Traditional Uses: Indigenous people have used the fruit and buds of Cholla cacti in traditional food preparations after removing the spines.

Wildlife

The Jumping Cholla provides important habitat for desert wildlife. Its dense, spiny structure offers shelter for small animals, while birds such as the cactus wren and curve-billed thrasher often nest within its branches. The fruits are also a source of food for animals like desert tortoises, rodents, and birds.

Toxicity

While Cylindropuntia fulgida is not toxic, its spines can cause significant physical harm. The barbed spines are difficult to remove once embedded in the skin, and they can cause pain, swelling, and even infection if not treated properly. 

Drought Tolerance

Like most cacti, this cholla cactus is highly drought-tolerant. Its thick, fleshy stems store water, allowing it to survive in extremely arid conditions with minimal rainfall. This makes it a popular choice for xeriscaping and water-efficient landscaping in desert regions.

Invasiveness

While Cylindropuntia fulgida is not generally considered invasive in its native range, it can spread quickly through vegetative reproduction. The cactus’s segments break off easily and can root where they land, forming new plants. In some areas, this can lead to dense thickets that are difficult to remove. Outside its native range, it is recorded as invasive in Australia, the Pacific Islands, and South Africa.

Jumping Cholla Care

Light Requirements: Jumping Cholla thrives in full sun and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It’s ideal for locations with bright, intense light.

Soil Requirements: Use a cactus or succulent mix that allows for good drainage. If you’re mixing your own, combine regular potting soil with sand or perlite. In its native desert habitat, Jumping Cholla thrives in sandy or rocky soil.

Watering: Water sparingly. During the growing season (spring and summer), water every 2-3 weeks, ensuring the soil is completely dry between waterings. In winter, reduce watering even more to once a month or less. Overwatering can cause root rot.

Temperature and Humidity: Jumping Cholla prefers warm temperatures and is heat-tolerant, thriving in environments where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F (32°C). It is hardy to USDA zones 8-11 and can tolerate temperatures down to 5°F (-15°C).  It thrives in dry conditions, typical of desert environments. High humidity can increase the risk of rot.

Fertilizing: Jumping Cholla does not require heavy feeding. Fertilize once during the growing season with a diluted cactus fertilizer. Avoid overfertilizing: Too much fertilizer can lead to leggy growth or damage to the plant.

Pruning and Maintenance: Prune only to remove dead or damaged segments. Use gloves and long-handled tools, as the spines can easily attach to skin or clothing. Always handle with care due to its barbed spines, which detach easily and are painful to remove.

Propagation: Propagate Jumping Cholla by taking stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry out for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until roots form.

Pests and Diseases: Jumping Cholla is generally pest-resistant. The most common issue is root rot from overwatering. Ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings.