Desert christmas cactus (Cylindropuntia leptocaulis)

Desert christmas cactus

Also known as: Christmas cactus, Christmas cholla

Desert christmas cactus (Cylindropuntia leptocaulis) is a wild cactus that will grow from 30 to 183 cm tall. Yellow flowers open in late afternoon and close the following morning. Red berries ripen in winter. Fruits were crushed and used for their intoxicating effects by different Native American tribes. Its interwoven branches can provide a nesting site for small animals.

Scientific classification

Species

Desert christmas cactus (Cylindropuntia leptocaulis)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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50 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

1.02 cm to 1.5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green, Pink

Stem Color

Evergreen, Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Desert christmas cactus

Distribution of Desert christmas cactus

Distribution Map

Desert christmas cactus is natively found in parts of North America, specifically in arid and semi-arid regions. It has been introduced to other continents, namely in some areas of Africa and Europe. While primarily growing in its natural habitats, desert christmas cactus is also cultivated outside its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Mesas, fFlats, Valleys and washes in deserts

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Desert christmas cactus

Once per month

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Adapted to arid environments, desert christmas cactus retains moisture and requires minimal watering, about once every four weeks. It thrives outdoors in full sun, mirroring its native dry conditions, and exhibits high drought tolerance, making it more suited for gardens than indoor settings.

Fertilize: For desert christmas cactus, use a succulent-specific fertilizer during active growth in spring and summer, applying monthly at half strength to avoid root burn. Water desert christmas cactus prior to fertilization to enhance nutrient absorption, and refrain from over-fertilizing to maintain plant health.

Pruning: Desert christmas cactus requires minimal pruning. Focus on removing withered flowers and branches to ensure the plant allocates nutrients towards healthy growth.

Propagation: Desert christmas cactus thrives in arid conditions and can be cultivated at home. Propagate by taking stem cuttings, allowing them to callous, and planting in well-draining sandy soil. Keep the soil slightly moist until roots develop, and use bottom heat to promote vigorous growth.

Repotting: For desert christmas cactus, repot every 2-3 years in spring to promote growth. Select a container slightly larger than the previous one to prevent excess moisture. After repotting, use well-draining soil and limit water until new growth indicates successful establishment.

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