Buckhorn cholla (Cylindropuntia acanthocarpa, Nye kaktusbog: 131 (1930))

Family: Cactaceae

Author: (Engelm. & J.M.Bigelow) F.M.Knuth

Bibliography: Nye kaktusbog: 131 (1930)

Year: 1930

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Cylindropuntia

Vegetable: False

Observations: SW. Utah to W. Arizona and NW. Mexico

Description

Buckhorn cholla, scientifically known as Cylindropuntia acanthocarpa, is a striking member of the Cactaceae family. This remarkable cactus species is observed primarily in the southwestern region of Utah, extending into western Arizona and northwest Mexico. Renowned for its distinctive and rugged appearance, the Buckthorn cholla thrives in these arid landscapes, effortlessly adapting to the challenging desert environment.

The plant exhibits a unique architectural form, characterized by its cylindrical stems, which are densely covered with spiny tubercles. The spines, which serve as a defense mechanism against herbivores, can be quite formidable and are a signature feature of the Buckhorn cholla. During the blooming season, the cactus adorns itself with vibrant, showy flowers, adding a splash of color to the stark desert terrain. These flowers, typically seen in hues ranging from yellow to red, attract various pollinators, playing a crucial role in the reproductive cycle of the plant.

The nomenclature of the Buckhorn cholla was established through the collaborative efforts of botanists Engelmann and J.M. Bigelow, with further contributions by F.M. Knuth as documented in the comprehensive reference work, “Nye kaktusbog,” published in 1930. This detailed documentation has significantly enhanced the understanding and classification of the Cylindropuntia genus.

In its natural habitat, the Buckhorn cholla not only endures but flourishes, contributing to the ecological tapestry of the desert. It provides shelter and sustenance for a myriad of desert-dwelling species and stands as a testament to the resilience of life in some of the harshest climates on earth.

Whether admired for its tenacity or its aesthetic appeal, the Buckhorn cholla remains a vital and captivating component of the desert ecosystem.

Common Names

Eng: buckhorn cholla
En: Buckhorn cholla
: Buck-horn cholla

Synonyms

• Opuntia acanthocarpa (Engelm. & J.M.Bigelow)
• Grusonia acanthocarpa ((Engelm. & J.M.Bigelow) G.D.Rowley)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• California (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Nevada (native)
• Utah (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Jul 1, 1992 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Bark

Taken Jul 1, 1992 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 22, 1992 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 20, 2022 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 20, 2022 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 20, 2022 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken May 3, 2022 by albert hines (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 18, 2022 by Josh (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 25, 2019 by Jay Dark (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 25, 2019 by Jay Dark (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 25, 2019 by Jay Dark (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7282888)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:73837-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Cylindropuntia acanthocarpa (Engelm. & J.M.Bigelow) F.M.Knuth)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Shrub

Growth