golden cholla

Cylindropuntia echinocarpa (Engelm. & J.M.Bigelow) F.M.Knuth

Cylindropuntia echinocarpa, known as golden cholla, is a cactus species in the Cactaceae family. It was previously classified under the genus Opuntia as Opuntia echinocarpa. The species is native to North America, with a distribution that includes Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah, and the Mexico Northwest region. It was formally published in 1936.

Description

Cylindropuntia echinocarpa is a cactus species that is also referred to as silver cholla or Wiggins' cholla. It is part of the Cactaceae family and is found in arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The species was reclassified from the genus Opuntia to Cylindropuntia and is recognized by its cylindrical stems and spiny appearance. It is adapted to desert environments and is a notable component of the flora in its native range.