Teddy Bear Cholla

Cylindropuntia bigelovii

Shrubby to tree-like, usually about 5’ in height.

Pale green jointed stems/branches.

Joints easily break off to form ‘Cholla balls’.

Detached cholla balls root quickly to form new plants.

Flowers 1”-1.5” wide, greenish yellow, Feb-May.

Spines golden, getting black with age, 1” long.

Favorite nesting site for Cactus wrens (AZ state bird).

Named for appearance of having fuzzy arms and legs.

Also called Jumping Cholla.