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Discovering the Desert / Diverse Landscapes

Teddy Bear Cholla (Cylindropuntia bigelovii) flowers

Teddy Bear Cholla (Cylindropuntia bigelovii) flowers

Plantae, Anthophyta, Dicotyledoneae, Caryophyllales, Cactaceae

Cylindropuntia bigelovii is commonly known as Teddy Bear Cholla due to its soft appearance from a distance. Because pieces break off easily and seem to “jump” onto those who get too close, it is also known as Jumping Cholla. Of the 15 cactus species found in the park, Teddy Bear Cholla is one of five species of cholla.

This specimen was collected by James E. Cole on May 21, 1941.

H 42, W 29 cm
Joshua Tree National Park, JOTR 1120