GOLDEN CHOLLA
Cylindropuntia (Opuntia) echinocarpa Sheathes of the spines are either white or gold, hence the two names. This cactus has a definite, short trunk, can branch readily, is 2 to 6 feet (0.6-1.8 m) tall, and is found below 4600 feet (1400 m). Stems are 2 to 6 inches (5-15 cm) long and are light green with numerous 11⁄2 inch (4 cm) spines with obvious wart-like projections called tubercles.
Flowers are greenish-yellow. The flowering period is April and May. Cholla has a woody infra-structure to stabilize its tall frame. After a cholla dies, this woody lattice-work structure can last for many, many years. |