Tree Cholla is the tallest cholla cactus, sometimes reaching 15 feet, and is one of the most distinctive plants of the Chihuahuan Desert and southern Rocky Mountain foothills. It produces large, cup-shaped magenta flowers in May and June, followed by yellow fruits that persist on the plant for years. The branching, tree-like form provides protected nesting sites for cactus wrens and roadrunners. It spreads into degraded grasslands, sometimes indicating overgrazing, and forms dense stands on rocky hillsides.
Best time to see a Tree Cholla
The best time to see a Tree Cholla is January–July, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 18,498 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Tree Cholla? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Tree Cholla sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Tree Cholla?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.