Saguaro National Park Cacti and Desert Plants

A densely spined cholla with segmented cylindrical stems that can sparkle golden in sunlight. Common in rocky slopes and cacti gardens within the park; segments detach easily and cling to clothing or animal fur, aiding vegetative spread.

Cylindrical, jointed stems densely covered in spines that glow golden-yellow; segments readily detach and cling; flowers are typically greenish-yellow to pinkish.

Common Confusions

• Buckhorn Cholla Cylindropuntia acanthocarpa Buckhorn has longer, straighter joints and darker spines while teddy bear cholla has denser, often golden spines and more brittle joints.
• Engelmann Prickly Pear Opuntia engelmannii Prickly pear has flat pads, not cylindrical segmented stems; cholla joints detach more readily.