Buckhorn Cholla

Plant Type: Cacti
Plant Height: 3-6 feet
Spread: 3-5 feet
Flower Color: greenish-yellow, pink, red
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Buckhorn Cholla (Cylindropuntia acanthocarpa) – A Stunning Addition to Phoenix Valley Landscapes

The Buckhorn Cholla, scientifically known as Cylindropuntia acanthocarpa, is a hardy and visually striking cactus that thrives in the desert climates of the Southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. With its distinctive branching structure and bold spines, this cactus is an excellent choice for Phoenix Valley gardens looking to embrace desert beauty.

Unique Form and Growth

Reaching 3 to 6 feet in height and 3 to 5 feet in width, the Buckhorn Cholla grows into a dense, shrub-like shape. Its cylindrical branches are segmented and covered with long, sharp spines that resemble the buckhorn shape, giving this cactus its name. The spiny texture creates a rugged, sculptural form that makes a bold statement in any landscape.

Vibrant Flowers and Persistent Fruits

In late spring to early summer, the Buckhorn Cholla bursts into bloom, showcasing greenish-yellow, pink, or red flowers. These vibrant blooms add a pop of color to your desert garden. After the flowering season, the cactus produces dry fruits that remain on the plant, adding visual interest throughout the year.

Perfect for Phoenix Xeriscaping

Ideal for desert landscaping and xeriscaping in the Phoenix Valley, the Buckhorn Cholla thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil. It is extremely drought-tolerant, needing minimal watering once established, making it a great choice for low-maintenance gardens. Its ability to tolerate extreme heat and poor soil conditions ensures that this cactus will thrive in the hot, arid environment of Phoenix and surrounding areas.

Landscaping Uses and Benefits

The Buckhorn Cholla is not only a visually striking plant but also a practical one. It’s often used as a barrier plant due to its spiny nature, making it ideal for marking boundaries in desert gardens. Its sculptural quality and resilience make it perfect for use in:

• Rock gardens
• Cactus and succulent gardens
• Dry garden settings

Why Choose Buckhorn Cholla?

• Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant – perfect for water-wise landscapes in the Phoenix Valley
• Adds texture, height, and color to desert gardens
• Thrives in full sun and extreme heat
• Works as a natural barrier or sculptural accent plant
• Eye-catching blooms in the spring, followed by year-round interest from its spines and persistent fruits

Important Considerations

While the Buckhorn Cholla adds dramatic beauty to desert landscapes, its sharp spines can be hazardous. It's best to plant it in areas where it won't pose a risk to children, pets, or areas with high foot traffic.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Buckhorn Cholla

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil (ideal for desert plants; prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil)
• Spacing: Space plants 6-8 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: No staking required; Buckhorn Cholla is a naturally erect cactus that grows in a branching, cylindrical shape

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil, ensuring good contact with the soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1 inch of water per session, but avoid waterlogging. Make sure the water drains away from the base of the plant

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Buckhorn Cholla is considered established after 4-6 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil, and the cactus begins showing consistent new growth

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 10-14 days during the hotter months, especially if rainfall is low. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 7-10 days. Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall. Buckhorn Cholla is very drought-tolerant once established but benefits from occasional deep watering during dry spells in the winter.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant to ensure water reaches the root zone, encouraging deep root growth. Avoid wetting the cactus body to prevent rot.
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour for slow, deep watering. This ensures water penetrates deeply into the soil, encouraging healthy root development.
• Number of Emitters: Place 1 emitter per plant to ensure even water distribution around the root zone. Adjust the number of emitters as the plant matures.
• Irrigation Zone: Set up a dedicated irrigation zone for drought-tolerant plants like Buckhorn Cholla, allowing you to adjust the watering schedule based on their specific needs.
• Adjusting Frequency: In the summer, you may need to increase watering frequency to every 7-10 days to keep the plant hydrated. In winter, reduce watering to every 4-6 weeks, or adjust based on rainfall.

General Watering Tips:

• Soil Check: Check the soil moisture regularly. Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
• Avoid Overwatering: Buckhorn Cholla is drought-tolerant once established. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure that the soil drains well and avoid standing water around the cactus.
• Mulch: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, but avoid placing mulch directly against the cactus body to prevent rot.