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Home , Cactus, Compass (Hudson), Echinocactus, Ferocactus, Ferocactus emoryi, Ferocactus glaucescens

Tucson and Succulent Society Guide to Common Cactus and Succulents of Tucson

http://www.tucsoncactus.org/c-s_database/index.html

Item ID: 1 Item ID: 2 : Cactaceae Family: Cactaceae : Genus: : wislizenii Species: grusonii Common Name: Fishhook Barrel Common Name: Golden Barrel Habitat: Various soil types from 1,000 Cactus to 6,000 feet elevation from grasslands Habitat: Located on rolling hills to rocky mountainous areas. and cliffs. Range: , southwestern New Range: Limited to small areas in , limited extremes of western Queretaro, Mexico. The popula- , , northwest tion had become very low in num- and northern Sinaloa, Mexico bers over the but is just Care: An extremely easy to grow now beginning to increase due to in and around the Tucson area. It re- protective laws and the fact that Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins quires little attention or special care as this plant is now in mass cultiva- ©1999 it is perfectly at home in almost any tion all over the world. setting. It is very tolerant of ex- Photo Courtesy of American Care: The Golden Barrel has slow- Description treme heat as well as cold. Cold hardi- ly become one of the most pur- This popular barrel cactus is noted ness tolerance is at around 10 degrees chased plants for home landscape for the beautiful golden yellow farenheit. Description in Tucson. It is an easy plant to spines that thickly surround the Propagation: Propagation of this cac- This plant is most recognized by the grow and takes no special care. dark green body. As with all true tus is by . large curved and hooked central spine Most plants are purchased at a Echinocactus the crown or top of Size: To 30 inches in diameter and 12 and the large ribbed "barrel" body. The fairly nice size and can be easily the stem is covered by dense feet tall Fish-hook Barrel is the most common transplanted to a garden land- white or slightly cream colored Shape: Globular barrel found growing in and around or a decorative container. It hair that is more prominent on : The color can be varia- Tucson. is not an extremely fast grower older and larger plants. ble from yellow, to and . The but can reach a very large size. most typical color seen is orange. Here in Tucson it is safely grown in practically any area of town and will add a nice touch of gold to your landscape. Propagation: This plant is very easily grown from seed. Size: To 24 inches wide and 40 inches tall. After many years this cactus may offset into a multiple headed plant that is truly a prize for any . can be Shape: Globular Flowers: The yellow flowers are distinct because of the sharp brownish pointed along the outer perimeter..

Item ID: 3 Item ID: 4 Family: Fouquieriaceae Family: Agavaceae Genus: Genus: Species: splendens Species: palmeri Common Name: Ocotillo (oh-koh-TEE- Common Name: Palmer's Agave, yo), Candlewood, Jacob's Staff, Habitat: Characteristically this Coachwhip Agave grows in areas inhabited by Habitat: Found at elevations of 3000 to the woodlands from 3,000 to 6500 feet elevation in rocky, gravelly 6,500 ft. elevation usually in lime- hillsides and especially areas where stone soils. limestone soils are common. Sandy Range: A rather widely scattered plains are also a favorite for the Ocotil- species that is found throughout lo. southeastern Arizona, southwest- Range: can be ern , Chihuahua and found native to southern , the Sonora, Mexico Photo Courtesy of Chris Monrad extreme southern region of Nevada, Care: is a rather ©2003 western and southern Arizona, southern slow growing species that is a very New Mexico, southwestern Texas. It al- easy plant to cultivate in and Photo Courtesy of Mark Dimmitt ©2002 Description so occurs in Baja California, Sonora, around Tucson. It can tolerate This Agave is somewhat misunder- Chihuahua, , , Zacate- temperatures as low as 10 degrees Description stood in that younger plants usual- cas and San Luis Potosí, Mexico. F. or lower but usually requires a Ocotillo is a - . It ly do not offset but as the plant Care: The Ocotillo is a very drought tol- more soil than typical de- can have anywhere from 6 to 100 wand ages it will often send out many erant plant and can take quite a lot of sert plants. like that grow from the small offsets. abuse. It can be dug up and transplant- crown. The growth rate is very slow. Propagation: Seed or rhizome off- ed after many days out of the soil. To sets best insure good health it is best to Size: Medium sized species 3.25-4 plant your Ocotillo deep enough for ade- ft. and 20-47 in. wide. quate support and to keep the long Shape: slender stems moist with a garden hose Flowers: Pale yellow/green to until it is well established. white Propagation: Propagation is best from seed. Cuttings may not produce a very attractive plant. Size: Stems can grow anywhere from 9 to 30 feet tall with spines to 1.5 inches long, spread to 15ft. Shape: Clustering Flowers: Red flowers in the spring. occur whenever there is plentiful moisture.

Item ID: 5 Item ID: 47 Family: Cactaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Carnegiea Genus: Ferocactus Species: gigantea Species: glaucescens Common Name: Common Name: No common name. Habitat: Plants are found in the Habitat: This species is found within of extreme south- the numerous limestone hills and boul- eastern California, southern Arizo- ders at several locations in the state of na and northwestern Mexico. The Hidalgo, Mexico. It has been noted to Saguaro is at home on desert favor the more northern slopes and the slopes, flats, and rocky areas up plants are well associated with the to about 4000 feet. rocky, juniper woodland to Range: Arizona, California and around 5,000 feet elevation. Sonora, Mexico Range: is only Care: The first word in care for known to be native within the state of the Saguaro is patience. It is easi- Hidalgo, Mexico and is common in and ly grown from seed except for the around such areas as Meztitlan, Toli- fact that from seed the plant takes Photo Courtesy of American man and Jacala. Care: Plants are easy to grow and re- many years to reach several feet Desert Plants in height. Most garden plants are quire little care once they have reached a nice flowering size. To insure robust purchased from nurseries and are Description plants in your garden they can be ferti- already large enough for estab- The magnificent Saguaro Cac- lized and watered around late April lishment as a landscape plant. No tus, the state flower of Arizo- through May. This usually aids in main- special requirement is needed. na, is composed of a tall, taining a healthier plant. Be sure to Extra watering can sometimes thick, fluted, columnar stem, limit the watering to about once a speed up the growth but this prac- 18 to 24 inches in diameter, week. A well drained soil is preferred tice is really up to the owner. often with several large with some amounts of a good rich gar- Propagation: The Saguaro is al- branches (arms) curving up- den soil added. A good cactus soil mix- ways grown from seed. ward in the most distinctive ture is recommended for container Size: 35 inches wide and up to 50 conformation of all South- growing. feet tall. western cacti. Shape: Columnar Propagation: Propagation is by seed Flowers: White and is very easy with this species. Size: This species can be about 20 inches in height and up to 20 inches in Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2003 diameter. Multiple heads are produced as the plant ages and can form a very Description large mound. The blue green appearance of this barrel Shape: Globular with the nice light golden spines makes it Flowers: Flowers are yellow and very easy to identify. The spines are rather are about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. neatly distributed and the unusual looking white are unmistakable. Another va- riety, "F. glaucescens var. nuda" has re- cently been introduced and is a real prize as it has little or no spines.

Item ID: 6 Item ID: 8 Family: Agavaceae Family: Agavaceae Genus: Agave Genus: Agave Species: americana Species: victoriae-reginae Common Name: Century plant, Mag- Common Name: Queen uey agave, Royal agave Habitat: Although it is a native of Mex- Habitat: This plant is typically ico, the actual habitat has not been fond of the rocky limestone areas very well established. This Agave has throughout its range in the Chi- been found in many types of soil and is huahuan Desert. Populations are a real survivor as the offsetting plants rather isolated and quite rare to- will continue growing long after the day as this beautiful Agave was a mother plant has died. favorite for habitat plant collectors Range: The natural location of Agave during the 20th century. Habitat Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins americana is unclear, but the range of numbers have now reached the ©2002 this plant within Mexico is very exten- Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins endangered status and wild plants sive. It is a very desirable ornamental ©2001 today are protected. Description plant and has been widely used in the Range: A variable species with The compact, tightly set leaves of production of fiber, food and drink. It Description small populations being found in this plant with the strange white has been introduced in Arizona, Califor- This beautiful Agave is easily recog- Durango, Nuevo Leon and Coahui- markings and sharp dark brown to nia and many southern states where it nized by the blue/gray leaves and its la, Mexico black pointed spine makes is receiving much attention. It is also large size. The actual age of the plant Care: This is a slow growing Agave this a favorite choice among plant grown in several Mediterranean coun- typically does not exceed 30 years and that requires rather little care. It lovers. tries, and the far east. some plants may flower much sooner loves being grown with full sun Care: Easily grows from separation of than expected. If you plan to grow this exposure and can tolerate the dry Author Comments the numerous offsets. With added wa- Agave be sure to think about its loca- Arizona weather although extra This is one of the most popular ter during the heat of the summer the tion and growth as it can easily watering during the summer and is found at almost any plant is most robust but is an easy tar- get very large. months can insure your plants re- nursery in the Tucson area. It is a get for the Agave weevil main healthy for many years. most attractive addition to any (Scyphophorus acupunctatus). This Author Comments Propagation: By seed or by the garden and can also be easily kept plant can tolerate very hot dry areas This is one of my favorite Agaves. The removal of occasional offsets. under pot culture. and is also quite successful in coastal above photo is of a plant about 7 feet Size: From 6 to 14 inches in locations in the southeastern United tall growing in Arivaca, Arizona. It was height and 18 to 30 inches wide. States. It has been tolerant of temper- about 5 years old when planted in 1986 Shape: Rosette atures as low as 12 degrees farenheit if and flowered in June of 2004. The Flowers: Yellow to a reddish beige kept very dry. name agave is from the Greek word or light burgundy Propagation: Seed and by offset re- agauos which means admirable. There moval are now more than 136 species in 20 Size: Commonly 5 to over 10 feet in groups and over 197 taxa in the sub- height and 10 or more feet wide. genera of Littaea and Agave. Admirable Shape: Rosette is a very fitting word for these magnifi- Flowers: The of this Aga- cent plants. ve is a very impressive sight as the stalk can rise to over 24 feet in height. The flowers are yellow.

Item ID: 9 Item ID: 10 Family: Agavaceae Family: Genus: Agave Genus: Species: vilmoriniana Species: vera Common Name: Octopus Agave Common Name: Habitat: Vertical cliffs and rocky Habitat: slopes in rugged locations Range: at elevations around 2,000 to Care: This Aloe is very easy to 6,000 feet. grow and maintain in the Tucson Range: It occurs in some very area. It requires very little actual rugged and remote rocky cliff lo- care and is not very popular with cations in the Mexican states of predators. Plants do well if wa- Aguascalientes, Durango, Jalisco, tered during the winter months. It Sinaloa and Sonora. is best to reduce watering and al- Care: A very easy Agave to grow Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins low the plants to be self main- in and around the Tucson area ©2003 tained during the spring and sum- where the night temperature mer. rarely drops below 24 degrees Description Propagation: Propagation is by farenheit. It is frost sensitive and This plant gets the name "Octopus" seed or by removing the numerous can be damaged rather easily in form the long curled leaves that are offsets. certain micro climates. It is both flexible and easy to touch. Size: Large single specimens are tolerant of full sun as well as par- over 14 inches wide and 2 feet in Photo Courtesy of Kevin Barber ©2003 tial shade and is very vigorous. Author Comments height. Large clumps can be over Propagation: By removal of the It is a popular landscaping plant 10 feet in diameter.. Description hundreds or thousands of bulbils mainly because of the strange curled Shape: Rosette The common Aloe vera found in many from the flower stalk. leaves and its attractive growth pat- Flowers: The flowers of this Aloe nurseries may be a hybrid. The true Aloe Size: Some plants grow as large tern. One slight draw back to having are always a somewhat medium vera is a yellow with some- as 4 feet in height and nearly 6 this plant is the fact that it does have shade of yellow. Flowering time in what gray leaves and stem color. Aloe vera feet wide. a rather short . Plants have been Tucson is usually March and April. is sometimes mistaken for Aloe barba- Shape: Rosette known to flower in only 8 years, but densis which also has yellow flowers and Flowers: Yellow will produce many small bulbils from there are also hybrids that have orange or which many more plants can be reddish flowers. grown.

Item ID: 11 Item ID: 12 Family: Cactaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Genus: Species: hildmannianus Species: schottii Common Name: Hedge Cactus, Common Name: Senita, Old Queen of the Night Man Cactus, Whiker Cactus Habitat: The exact habitat for this Habitat: This plant is a rarely species is rather uncertain because seen cactus within the borders of of its popular cultivation over the the but can be years. found in low flat plains and valley Range: It is found throughout regions almost entirely below southern and especially in and 2,000 feet in elevation in it's na- around the city of Rio de Janeiro. It tive habitat. is also found in neighboring coun- Range: This species is found in tries such as , Uruguay the extreme southwestern por- Photo Courtesy of Kevin Barber and Paraguay. tion of Pima County, Arizona and ©2003 Care: This plant has been in cultiva- extends into Sonora and Baja tion for many, many years and has California, Mexico. Description been commonly seen in lots of gar- Photo Courtesy of Dick Wiedhopf ©2003 Care: The Senita is easily grown The stems of the Senita are a dens in and around Tucson. It is in Tucson although it is sensitive bluish green or gray green color easy to find and to grow and has no Description to heavy frost or freezing condi- with white spines that over time problems adapting to any garden in This plant has long columnar stems that tions. It is best to protect the turn a darker gray in color and this area. have 5 to 7 ribs. The stems are bluish- stems with a frost protective cov- will form a long bristlelike dis- Propagation: Propagation is by green or a dull gray-green color. Spines ering on really cold nights. It is play at the upper portion of the seed or by stem cuttings. when present are short and brown to black highly tolerant of very hot, dry plant. It is within this area that Size: 30 or more feet in height, and in color. conditions and needs little addi- the flowers will form. This is a sometimes forming large columnar tional care in most garden set- plant that can be a real prize bushes. tings. after growing for many years so Shape: Columnar Propagation: This cactus is easi- start yours as soon as you can. Flowers: Large white flowers ap- ly grown from stem cuttings or in mid-summer. grown from seed. Size: This can be a large plant. Specimens can reach to over 20 feet in height and over 15 feet in diameter with up to 50 or more stems. Shape: Columnar Flowers: Flowers are from the upper portion of the plant and are white in the center with at the outer ends of the petals.

Item ID: 14 Item ID: 15 Family: Cactaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Genus: Cylindropuntia Species: bigelovii Species: fulgida Common Name: Teddy Bear Common Name: Chain Cholla, Cholla Jumping Cholla Habitat: This plant is found from Habitat: Found in the low desert level to about 2,000 feet el- from around 1,000 feet to grasslands evation in sandy soils along the and hillsides at over 3,500 feet ele- coastal areas of Sonora, Mexico vation. The growth of this cholla is to rocky desert regions of Arizo- sometimes so thick it can be a real na and California. challenge to get through the area Range: In Arizona the plant is without catching a few hitch-hikers. found growing in colonies within Range: In the United States this Yuma, Pima, Maricopa and Mo- plant is only found in or near the have counties of Arizona. In Cal- Sonoran Desert region of Arizona. It ifornia it inhabits Imperial, Riv- extends south and southwest into Photo Courtesy of American De- erside and San Bernadino coun- Sonora, Sinaloa and into Baja Cali- sert Plants ties and extends southward into fornia, Mexico. Sonora, Mexico. Care: A very easy plant to grow in Description Care: This cholla is an easy plant Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2000 and around Tucson as this cholla is As the common name implies, to grow in a desert landscape or one of the most self propagating of this is a chain fruit cholla. The near areas where you need add- Description any cholla. The stems and fruit de- fruit may be easily seen during ed protection from intruders. This is the cholla that everyone wants to tach from the mother plant very eas- the summer hanging in large The stems root very easily and hug! The Teddy Bear Cholla as the locals ily and can root almost anywhere. quantities from the main plant. with a little extra water during call it is a very beautiful light golden or Propagation: Seed and most signifi- They can sometimes fall to the the dryer months of the it straw colored plant typical because of the cantly by removal of stems or fruit. ground and take root during the will grow into a nice robust distinct color and appearance. Don't ever Size: Large plants can grow to over rainy season and yet another plant. be fooled, the spines of this plant are some 8 feet or more wide and over 10 feet plant can be started. Propagation: From easily de- of the most vicious as they are very heavi- in height. tachable stem segments ly barbed and can inflict a serious wound if Shape: Padded/Jointed Size: Very compact growth sev- they happen to penetrate the skin. Flowers: Flowers are a light to dark eral feet wide to over 8 feet in pink in color. height. Shape: Padded/Jointed Flowers: Pale yellow/green

Item ID: 16 Item ID: 17 Family: Cactaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Cylindropuntia Genus: Species: leptocaulis Species: fasciculatus Common Name: Desert Christ- Common Name: Hedgehog mas Cactus Habitat: Found in a variety of de- Habitat: Found in a variety of lo- sert soils and terrains in valleys, cations from several hundred feet hills and mountainous areas from to over 3,500 feet elevation. about 2,000 to 6,000 ft. elevation. Range: Located in the Sonoran, Range: Southern Arizona, New Mojavean, and Chihuahuan de- Mexico and Sonora, Mexico serts of . In Arizo- Care: Very easy plant to grow in na, New Mexico, Texas and south- Tucson. This plant is an area native ward into Mexico. and can survive with very little Care: Cylindropuntia leptocaulis is care. an easy plant to grow here in Propagation: Seed and offset Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins Tucson. Give this plant full sun or stem cuttings ©2003 partial shade and it will do very Size: Clumping plants may have up well. Many chollas are easily es- to 30 stems and form clumps 24 Description tablished and will grow well when inches wide and 18 inches tall. This Echinocereus is know for be- given a bit of added moisture dur- Shape: Clustering ing rather abundant in the Tucson ing those dryer months just prior Flowers: Flowers occur in the early area, and the dark brown central to the monsoon. spring and are light to dark magen- spine near the top of the stem Propagation: Seed and stem ta in color. makes it easy to identify. Flowers cuttings are seen in April or May and can Size: This is somewhat of a tough be a very nice surprise for those question. In habitat it can reach unfamiliar viewers. approximately 3 feet or more in Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2004 height and form a nice bush or shrub. Description Shape: Padded/Jointed In desert areas you may find spineless Flowers: The flowers may be plants and others that have the typical 1 cream to light yellow or some- long spine per areole. This is a quite com- what greenish yellow in color. mon find in this species. During good years of fruit production the Christmas cholla will display the very noticeable small red fruit that is easily seen during the month of De- cember, and is a nice eye treat during the holidays. The plant is very hardy in colder regions and has been introduced to gar- dens in some southern states as far north as North Carolina.

Item ID: 20 Item ID: 22 Family: Cactaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Genus: Species: grahamii Species: -indica Common Name: Arizona fishhook Common Name: Indian fig, Tu- Cactus, Lizard Catcher, Graham's na Cactus, Burbank's Spineless Fishhook Cactus Cactus, Burbank Prickly Pear Habitat: Found in a variety of soil Habitat: The native habitat for types from low desert areas to rocky this Opuntia is not known. It has mountainous terrain from 1,200 to been cultivated for many years 6,000 feet elevation. and is now found in locations all Range: This Mammillaria is found in over the world. In the United Arizona, California, New Mexico and States plants can be seen in cul- Texas. It also extends into Sonora, tivation in Florida, Bermuda, Chihuahua and Sinaloa, Mexico Texas, California and Arizona. Care: An excellent plant for a sunny Range: The range of this plant patio container location or as an ad- can be quite variable as it is dition to the garden. Being a local found in many areas. Around native, it is very much a carefree Tucson plants are easily found to plant and requires little attention ex- over 3,000 feet elevation. Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins cept for container culture. This plant Care: O. ficus-indica is an ex- ©2003 may cluster with several offsets but tremely carefree plant for any this may or may not occur. garden in Tucson. It can be easi- Description Propagation: Usually by seed but ly rooted from cuttings and re- Burbank's Spineless Cactus or the offsets can be cut from the mother quires no special soil or situa- Burbank Prickly Pear can be seen plant and rooted if necessary. Photo Courtesy of Kevin Barber ©2002 tion. It can take full sun as well by everyone driving around Tuc- Size: To 9 inches in height and 4 as partial shade and is rather son. This plant has been in heavy inches wide. Clustering plants can be Description fast to establish and grow. It is cultivation here for a number of much wider. This Mammillaria is very common in and also hardy to around 20 degrees years and is a common sight in Shape: Clustering around Tucson and it is noted for the ra- farenheit. neighborhoods throughout the Old Flowers: Flowers appear in June and ther thin, short, black hooked spines and Propagation: By seed or by Pueblo. It is a spineless plant with July. Petals are commonly bordered beautiful pink to dark magenta flowers. stem cuttings large, thick, flat joints usually by white with a pink to magenta in- The edible fruit is about 1/4 to 3/4 inches Size: Very large species of about 12 to 20 inches long. Most terior. long and stands out from the plant like lit- Opuntia. Can reach over 15 feet plants have a central growing point tle red chilies. in height and over 10 feet in or trunk and are sometimes ex- width. tremely massive in size. Shape: Padded/Jointed Flowers: Yellow to very light orange/yellow that will usually change to a darker orange color by late afternoon.

Item ID: 25 Item ID: 27 Family: Agavaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Genus: Cylindropuntia Species: elata Species: spinosior Common Name: Soaptree yucca Common Name: Cane Cholla Habitat: Commonly seen in the Habitat: Found in desert val- Desert Grasslands and extending leys and grassland areas from into the high desert from approx- 2,000 to 7,000 ft. elevation. imately 1,500 to 6,500 feet in Range: This cholla is found elevation. through many areas of south- Range: This Yucca is found in ern Arizona, New Mexico, So- western Texas, southern New nora and Chihuahua, Mexico. Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2000 Mexico and southern Arizona. It Care: This is a very easy spe- is also in northern Sonora and cies to grow and is very hardy. Description northern Chihuahua, Mexico. In areas of the southeastern This is a very beautiful cholla that has the Care: Small plants are commonly United States it is very toler- distinct dark green stems with short white/ found in many nurseries. The of wet and cold weather gray spines and tuberous areoles. It is small plants can be easily plant- where it survives and grows commonly seen with red flowers in and ed and require only extra water very well. around the Tucson area. A real favorite during the hotter months of the Propagation: Seed and stem target for the notorious Cactus , year. Plants after establishment cuttings Moneilema armata. The beetle as you may need very little if any extra care Size: Plants are variable in find it is not the problem but the larvae of except for sometimes clean-up of Photo Courtesy of Mark Dimmitt ©1970 growth but can easily attain 8 the beetle is what really destroys the plant the dying leaves. This is a very feet in height and several feet from the inside. Usually you may not know hardy species and can tolerate wide. the plant has been attacked until it begins Description temperatures below zero. It can Shape: Padded/Jointed The flexible leaves of this Yucca are quite to die. also survive in full sun and hot Flowers: Variations from light summer heat as well. long and thin. Along the leaf margins are many white curling fibers that appear to red to dark red, orange to yel- Propagation: The Soaptree yuc- low and rarely a creamy white ca can be grown from seed. look like hair. In age the plant will form a Propagating this plant in any oth- trunk that is well anchored to the ground er way is not advised. by the strong, deeply penetrating . Size: Commonly found to reach a height of about 10 to 20 feet. Taller plants are quite rare but do exist. Shape: Rosette Flowers: White, fragrant flowers are formed at the top of a tall stalk and can be a very reward- ing sight.

Item ID: 28 Item ID: 29 Family: Agavaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Agave Genus: Opuntia Species: parryi var. huachu- Species: santa-rita censis Common Name: Santa-Rita Common Name: Huachuca Prickly Pear, Purple prickly Agave pear Habitat: Usually found from Habitat: Found native to de- 4,000 to 8,000 feet elevation sert areas, grasslands and from the desert grasslands to Oak Woodlands at 2,500 to the oak woodland and for- 5,500 feet elevation. est in mountainous areas. Range: Opuntia santa-rita can Range: Southeastern Arizona, be found in southern Arizona, Sonora and Chihuahua, Mexico southern New Mexico, south- Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins Care: A very easy Agave to western Texas, and in north- ©2003 grow in and around the Tucson ern Sonora, Mexico. area and can be grown in full Care: A very easy Opuntia to Description The purple prickly pear is noted for sun or partial shade. This Aga- Photo courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2001 grow and maintain in and ve requires very little care ex- around Tucson. This cactus is the waxy bluish gray stem color and cept for the occasional sum- very tolerant of the heat and the purple colorings along the edges Description mer watering prior to the mon- dry conditions seen around of the stems. It also has a distinct This Agave is a very attractive species that is soonal rainy season. southern Arizona. Rooted cut- main trunk with numerous flat stems common in many around Arizona. Propagation: By seed and off- tings can easily produce a ma- or pads. The name Opuntia violacea The tight clustered blue/gray green leaves sets ture plant within several years var. santa-rita was once used but now are an eye catching favorite and no garden Size: From 25 inches wide and with little effort or special it is known as just Opuntia santa-rita. should be without this Agave. It can take 30 inches tall care. This plant is well suited temperatures down to around 12 degrees far- Shape: Rosette for a place in your sunny gar- enheit. Flowers: The inflorescence of den. this plant can be quite spec- Propagation: This plant is tacular. The color of the flow- easily propagated by stem ers are a bright yellow. cuttings and by seed. Size: Mature specimens of this cactus can be at least 5 to 6 feet wide and over 5 feet in height. Shape: Padded/Jointed Flowers: The flower color is a light lemon yellow and usually opens in the month of May.

Item ID: 30 Item ID: 31 Family: Cactaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Genus: Cylindropuntia Species: myriostigma Species: versicolor Common Name: Bishop's Common Name: Staghorn Cholla Cap, Bonete de Obispo Habitat: Found at 1,500 to 3,500 feet Habitat: Occurs from elevation in †he Sonoran desert. 1,500 to around 8,300 Range: This plant is found in large feet elevation in rocky or populations in Pima county, Arizona stony soils. and in and around the city of Tucson. Range: This species is Smaller isolated populations are found found in several of the in Gila, Pinal, Maricopa and western more central Mexican Cochise counties. It is also found south Photo Courtesy of Joseph states such as Coahuila, of the Arizona border in Sonora, Mexi- ©2002 Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas co. and San Luis Potosi. Care: This is a very easy plant to grow Care: This is a very easy Description in any area around Tucson and re- plant to grow and care for The Bishop's Cap is an easy quires little maintenance or care. A in and around Tucson. It plant to identify mainly be- very hardy plant that is also a favorite requires very little atten- cause of the lack of spines and for producing the choice cholla Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©1993 tion and can reward the the numerous white or gray that are eaten by native americans as owner with an abundant velvety tufts that cover the well as foraging . Description display of flowers during stem surface. There is also a Propagation: Seed or stem cuttings This is an easy cholla to identify mainly the summer months. It is nudum form that has none of Size: From 8 feet in height to more because of the dark gray/green stem color. easy to handle and easy the white tufted characteristics. than 10 feet wide This plant will change stem color during to keep in the garden. This genus has also been hy- Shape: Padded/Jointed bridized extensively and nu- drought or during the winter and this Propagation: Seed Flowers: Flowering starts in May. merous forms are now availa- change turns the stems to a rather attrac- Size: 8 inches wide and to Flower color varies from shades of yel- ble to growers and collectors. tive dark purple color. 10 inches in height low, yellow/green, orange to red. Of- Shape: Globular ten one plant can have several flower Flowers: Sometimes colors. The species name, versicolor, more of a creamy yellow reflects this flower color variation. or very Light Yellow

Item ID: 32 Item ID: 34 Family: Agavaceae Family: Agavaceae Genus: Genus: Species: wheeleri Species: microcarpa Common Name: Sotol, Desert Spoon Common Name: Bear Grass, Habitat: Widely distributed in grass- Sotol Chiquito lands, pine, juniper and oak - Habitat: Found in the grass- lands from 3,000 to 6,000 feet. lands and oak woodlands Range: Found in south and south- from 3,000 to 6,000 feet ele- eastern Arizona, southern New Mexi- vation. co, western Texas and extends south Range: This Nolina is native into Sonora and Chihuahua, Mexico. to the southern regions of Ari- Care: Cultivated plants can be easily Photo Courtesy of Dick Wiedhopf zona, New Mexico and also found at most garden centers around ©2003 western Texas. It is also seen Tucson and are easily transplanted. in Chihuahua and Sonora, This plant is cold hardy to around 0 Description Mexico. degrees farenheit and is quite tolerant This plant is widely known as Care: This southern Arizona of extreme heat and full sun. It is also "Bear Grass" as it does look like a native is easily grown in very tolerant of a more shady location in huge clump of yellow-green grass. Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2003 sunny locations or in shaded the garden and can be watered rather The leaves are armed with a very areas. It is drought tolerant frequently although this is seldom sharply jagged edging and some Description when well established but needed. extra caution should be taken This is an attractive, very hardy plant that may need extra water during Propagation: Propagated by seed. during handling. The long leaves has many prickly edged linear grayish exceptionally dry months. The Size: Bushy single stem plants may cascade beautifully from the base blue/green leaves. It is long living under question of cold tolerance exceed 5 feet in height and 4 feet and are usually split and dusty most desert conditions and some plants should be no problem for wide. brown toward the tips. will to form very large specimens plants here in and around Shape: Rosette although this is not often seen. Tucson as this species of No- Flowers: Flowers appear from May lina can survive temperatures through August and the sandy, light as low as -20 degrees faren- beige clusters are not typically attrac- heit. tive. Propagation: Propagated by seed or by separating and re- planting the offsets. Size: Bear Grass can become a large bushy cluster approxi- mately 5 feet in height and 6 or more feet wide. Shape: Clustering Flowers: Flowers are seen during the summer months and are very small. Flowers are a light beige in color.

Item ID: 35 Item ID: 37 Family: Agavaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Genus: Opuntia Species: Species: microdasys Common Name: Giant Hesper- Common Name: Bunny Ears, aloe, Coahuilan Hesperaloe Rabbit Ears, Cegador Habitat: Habitat: Range: Found in the states of Range: Found in many areas Coahuila through Nuevo Leon of the Chihuahuan Desert in and into San Luis Potosi. Mexico and extending further Care: This is a very drought tol- south into central Mexico. erant plant but the addition of Care: This plant is a survivor extra summer moisture is en- and can do well without a lot couraged to keep the plant in of extra care. It grows very good form. is well here in Tucson and is also a very cold tolerant species very popular because of the Photo Courtesy of Kevin Barber and can withstand temperatures attractive appearance of the ©2003 as low as 5 degrees farenheit. glochid color and overall Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2003 For gardens in Tucson this is an shape of the entire plant. This Description excellent addition, but be sure to Opuntia is not a favorite tar- There are no spines on these plants. allow for the large size expan- Description get of the cactus beetle and But do not let the soft velvety look sion. Leaf color is a rather yellow-green and can it's larvae so it generally can fool you. The numerous small glo- Propagation: Propagated by be approximately 2 inches wide and over 6 grow well for many years. chids can easily detach if touched and feet in length. Leaves have long curly hair seed or by offset removal. Propagation: Can be propa- become very bothersome. There are like strings attached to the side margins. Size: Plant may be 6 feet in gated by seed or from stem three commonly seen glochid colors The rather stiff leaf tends to cascade to- height and 6 feet wide with very cuttings. found in ; reddish ward the which adds to the attractive long rather rigid leaves. Size: The size of a single -brown, golden yellow and white. The form of this increasingly popular species. Shape: Rosette plant can be quite extensive variety substitution is not recognized Flowers: Flowers are somewhat but average around 3.5 feet today and these color names are gen- greenish white and are displayed in height and over 6 feet in erally only used commonly for sales on the tall flower stalk width. distinction. Shape: Padded/Jointed Flowers: Flowers open in the spring and are yellow on most non hybrid varieties.

Item ID: 38 Item ID: 39 Family: Cactaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Opuntia Genus: Opuntia Species: engelmannii Species: engelmannii var. lin- Common Name: Engelmann's guiformis Prickly Pear, Flaming Prickly Pear, Common Name: Cow's Tuna, Yellow Spined Prickly Pear Tongue Cactus, Cow Tongue Habitat: This species may be Prickly Pear, Lengua de vaca found from 200 to 4,500 feet ele- Habitat: The original habitat vation in a variety of soil types. of this Opuntia is the low mes- The habitat around Tucson for this quite forested range land of species is well known to many and south Texas just northeast of it is certainly not overly selective. San Antonio at around 500 Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2003 Range: This species is found in feet elevation. many areas of the United States, Range: This particular Opuntia Propagation: This cactus is easily propa- Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Okla- Photo Courtesy of Kevin Barber was found native to a limited gated by stem cuttings or by seed. homa and Louisiana. It occurs in ©2003 area in Bexar County, Texas. Size: Plants can reach 6 feet in height and many states south of the border First described by Griffiths in up to 8 feet wide. into Mexico extending as far south Description 1908. The location was docu- Shape: Padded/Jointed as San Louis Potosi. There are currently 6 different varie- mented by Del Weniger as be- Flowers: This Opuntia has flowers that are Care: This Opuntia like many oth- ties of O. engelmannii recognized. ing just south of the town of 2 inches wide and yellow in color. ers is a trouble free plant to main- Each has its own characteristics and Grove and Sayers, Tex- as. This particular Opuntia has tain. It is extremely drought toler- distinctions. Description been widely accepted and now ant, cold hardy and a fast grower. It is easy to see where this Opuntia got its' grows in many areas outside Extra water during the dry sum- name. The stems have been found to grow the original range. mer months is encouraged but to almost 2 feet in length and are armed Care: Because of this plants seldom needed. It is easily at- with the typical yellow spines of the engel- tacked by the cactus beetle, and great ability to adapt to the mannii species. The real "Cow Tongue" can be infested by in- surroundings it should be not- look distinguishes this plant from all other ed that cultivation is not a sects that can eventually kill or . damage the stems. Extra care concern. This cactus can grow should be given to avoid those into a nice size plant in only a predators. few years. It requires little Propagation: By seed or stem supplemental water but a little cuttings. added water should keep it Size: This plant can reach around looking good and healthy. 10 feet in height and 10 or more Some plants require of feet in width. the stems in to keep it Shape: Padded/Jointed from spreading into other are- Flowers: Flowers on this species as of the garden. are typically pure yellow, large and very showy. Sometimes vari- ations of the flower color can oc- cur which is not rare.

Item ID: 40 Item ID: 41 Family: Cactaceae Family: Liliaceae Genus: Genus: Aloe Species: thurberi Species: Common Name: Pipe Common Name: No common Cactus, Mehuelé name available Habitat: This plant can be Habitat: This Aloe occurs at seen in rocky, desert terrain around 6,500 feet elevation at 900 to 3,500 feet in eleva- where the largest populations tion. are found along the eastern Range: This species is found mountain slopes of Black in extreme southern Arizona, Mountain in Rhodesia. Sonora, Sinaloa and Baja Cal- Range: Aloe saponaria has ifornia, Mexico. been found only around the Care: Inyanga District of Rhodesia in can be grown in Tucson pro- South Africa. It is reported to vided it has a micro-climate be found just north of suitable for low frost or Troutbeck on near Mount In- freeze occurences along with yangani. dry soil conditions during the Care: In Tucson this Aloe is winter months. It is a rather probably the most widely culti- slow growing species and can vated of all . It is a very take many years to mature to Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2005 easy plant to grow and re- specimen size. quires very little extra atten-

Propagation: This cactus can Description tion. It may require more be easily grown from seed or The Organ Pipe Cactus is a beautiful, high- moisture during those months Photo Courtesy of Kevin Barber ©2003 propagated by stem cuttings. ly desirable plant for a desert landscape. when rainfall is low. It is a Size: A mature specimen can The green stems or columns can be winter grower and will accept Description reach 25 feet in height and quite large with numerous gray spines. added moisture during the This Aloe is widely cultivated and is quite over 15 feet in width with nu- Tucson winter. attractive mainly because of the variable merous stem columns. Propagation: This plant is light whitish leaf markings. Along the edg- Shape: Columnar easily propagated by removal es of the green leaves are brownish col- Flowers: Flowers are white of the many offsets and by ored teeth that are usually not extremely and open during the evening seed. sharp. The flowering plants here in Tucson hours. They may remain open Size: The actual plant is only are noted as a good attractant for hum- for most of the following day. about 12 inches in height and ming . can be about the same in width. Older plants can have many offsets and produce a very large group several feet in width. Shape: Rosette Flowers: The flowers of this species are a beautiful shade of red that can appear in the late fall.

Item ID: 43 Item ID: 44 Family: Cactaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Pachycereus Genus: Species: marginatus Species: greggii var. transmontanus Common Name: Mexican Common Name: Queen of the Night, Fence Post Cactus, Organo Night Blooming Cereus, Sweet Habitat: Found in numerous cactus locations along valleys and Habitat: The Queen of the Night is hillsides in a variety of soil found growing among desert types. and such as mesquite and palo- Range: Found native verde at elevations from 1,000 to 3,500 throughout Hidalgo, Queréta- feet. Because of the color of the stems ro, Guanajuato and , it is often quite hard to find among the Mexico. This species has also and can easily be over- been widely cultivated and looked. grown in a variety of locations Range: This cactus occurs in parts of in Mexico where it is has now Cochise, Maricopa and Pima counties in Photo Courtesy of Kevin Barber naturalized. Commonly called Arizona and south into Sonora, Mexico. ©2002 the Fence Post cactus because Care: This is a great plant for a dry it has for many years been weather garden that is not controlled by Description used and cultivated as a fence drip or by other means of irrigation. This plant is hard to misidentify for . Plants are usually purchased at a small when found in and around the Care: This cactus is an easy size and you can easily transplant it to Tucson area. It is found usually plant to grow from nursery your garden very easily where it can hidden from view because of the stock or from cuttings. It is a grow into a flowering specimen in sev- stems that appear at first to be rather fast plant to grow and eral years. Plants will need to be placed only dead limbs fallen from a can become a very large Photo Courtesy of Dick Wiedhopf under the protection of other vegetation . The plant is a dull gray col- specimen over 8 to 10 feet ©2003 until they can grow and mature. or with sometimes purplish edg- tall in about 10 years. It does Propagation: New plants are best ing. The spines are very short and close to the plant along the very well in full sun and may Description grown from seed although cuttings can tapering stems that are very thin need extra water during the This is an erect plant that does not be rooted easily. at the base and wider ate the hotter parts of the Arizona branch much above ground level. It is Size: has a large top. The stems can be easily bro- summer. very green in color with about 5 to 7 tubular root that can weight up to 80 ken off as they are quite fragile Propagation: This cactus is ribs armed with very short spines. The pounds or more. The above ground and brittle at the base. can be easily grown from plant can be easily picked up using plant that is seen can be as much as 4 seed or propagated by cut- gloves or even bare hands if careful. feet in height with numerous branched tings. The plant forms a tall slender cluster stems. Size: Can grow to a height of of stems that are very attractive for Shape: Padded/Jointed 10 to 18 feet tall and 4 feet in landscape purposes. Flowers: The large white flowers of this width. plant are nocturnal and begin their dis- Shape: Columnar play in late May. Older, long-time resi- Flowers: Flowers are rather dents talk of having specimens with up small and reddish pink in col- to 100 flowers open on a single night. or.

Item ID: 51 Item ID: 26 Family: Agavaceae Family: Agavaceae Genus: Agave Genus: Hesperaloe Species: lechuguilla Species: parviflora Common Name: Shin Dagger Common Name: Red hesper- Agave aloe, Red Yucca, Habitat: This Agave is extremely Yucca fond of gravelly limestone soil and Habitat: throughout its natural range it can is fond of limestone soils and is be commonly found in association commonly found along valley with limestone. slopes and canyon areas within Range: This is probably the most the habitat. widely distributed Agave species. Range: Not commonly found in ranges from Texas but has become a dis- southern New Mexico and south- tributed . It is also pop- west Texas down into Mexico ular in ma n y southern and through the states of Chihuahua, Photo Courtesy of Karen Keller ©2004 southwestern states. This plant Tamaulipas, and San is from western Texas and Luis Potisí. It can occur from Description northeast Mexico. around 1,500 to near 7,500 feet The leaves of Agave lechuguilla are usu- Care: This is a very easy plant elevation. ally straight and may number from 10 to grow in Tucson and the sur- Care: This is one of the hardiest of to over 50. Leaves are stiff, erect , dag- rounding areas. It is very toler- Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins @2003 Agaves to grow in and around the ger-like and can be a real challenge ant of cold weather and can Tucson area. It is easily grown with when hiking through its habitat. Many easily take temperatures below Description regular watering during the sum- offsets are common with this species. 0º F. It is also highly tolerant There are basiclly two forms of this plant mer and can even tolerate ex- of full sun and may only need that are very popular for desert landscap- tremely dry conditions. It is a very supplimental watering during ing. Both the red and yellow flowering hardy plant that can take tempera- the dryer months of the year. forms are currently available in many tures to 0º F. One distinctive char- Propagation: Propagation is nurseries. Plants have long deep green as- acteristic is that it produces many from seed and of the cending leaves with white hairlike portions offsets and may need extra space numerous offsets. along the leaf margins. Flowers are numer- in a garden. Size: Adult plants may have ous and are a common attractant of hum- Propagation: Agave lechuguilla many offsets and can be 2 to 4 mingbirds. produces an abundance of offsets feet in height and several feet and can also be grown from seed. wide. Size: Mature plants can be to 20 Shape: Clustering inches tall and up to 30 inches Flowers: Deep red to light pink wide although these sizes can and there is also a cream to vary. yellow flowering variety. Shape: Rosette Flowers: The yellow flowers are tinged with red and are usually produced on healthy plants that are about 10 to over 20 years old.

Item ID: 49 Item ID: 50 Family: Agavaceae Family: Agavaceae Genus: Agave Genus: Agave Species: weberi Species: lophantha Common Name: Common Name: No common Habitat: This beautiful Agave name known. has been reported to have origi- Habitat: The natural habitat for nated in a small village in the this plant seems to be somewhat state of San Luis Potosí, Mexico. confusing because of the Today it has been widely culti- amounts of rainfall it may re- vated and planted throughout ceive in some areas where it Mexico and the southwestern naturally occurs. It is uaually parts of the United States as well common on rocky limestone as many other countries. hillsides but also is found in low- Range: Was recorded to be er coastal places and even sandy found in Webb County, Texas as locations where living conditions growing along highway 83 but may be warmer, wetter and a the origination of the plant in little more tropical. It extends that area is not known. It is culti- Photo Courtesy of Karen Keller ©2004 from around 100 to as much as vated along the lower Rio Grande 5,000 ft. elevation. Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins and the arid southwest. ©2003 Description Range: Agave lophantha is Care: is hardy to The leaves of Agave weberi are notably found in southeastern Texas in cold temperatures as low as 10º greenish gray in color, large and wide in areas near the Rio Grande Valley Description F. In Arizona they can be grown shape, and have very small teeth or none and extends southward into The look of Agave lophantha is quite in a partially shaded area or in at all along the margins. It is a very attrac- Mexico. It is commonly found distinctive but this species does have full sun. Plants exposed to full tive species and can be a beautiful addition growing in the coastal areas of some variety. The leaves are margin- sun may experience extensive to any arid landscape garden. Be cautious the state of Tamaulipas and Ver- ally armed with sharp teeth and each yellowing of the leaves and may of this next sentence. The flower stalk or acruz. leaf is usually stiff and straight with a require extra watering and ferti- shaft can reach to over 25 feet tall and can dark brown tip spine. The leaf color lizing during the summer. This easily topple the plant over especially if Size: Some mature plants can is dark green but some plants may will usually insure beautiful the ground is soft or high winds occur. be as large as 45 inches tall and display a more yellow/green color healthy growth. The soil require- to 36 inches wide. especially when stressed. A light yel- ments for this species is rather Shape: Rosette lowish green center stripe runs verti- unimportant and it can be grown Flowers: The inflorescent shaft cally down the center of each leaf. easily in the desert soils in and or spike may extend as tall as 12 Hybrids of this species are cultivated around Tucson and . feet with greenish yellow or light and can be somewhat confusing at yellow flowers. times. Shape: Rosette Flowers: The flowers are bright yellow.

Item ID: 53 Item ID: 55 Family: Agavaceae Family: Agavaceae Genus: Agave Genus: Agave Species: americana var. mar- Species: murpheyi ginata Common Name: No com- Common Name: Varigated Cen- mon name available. tury Plant, Maguey Habitat: Populations are ra- Habitat: Although it is a native ther small and scattered. It is of Mexico, the actual habitat has usually found along hillsides not been very well established. from 1,000 to 3,200 ft. ele- This Agave has been found in vation. many types of soil and is a real Range: This agave is be- survivor as the offsetting plants lieved to have been cultivat- will continue growing long after ed or transported by native the mother plant has died. americans. In central Arizona Range: The natural location of small populations have been is unclear, but seen near the Superstition the range of this plant within Mountains in Maricopa coun- Mexico is very extensive. It is a ty. Gentry reported seeing it very desirable cultivated on the reservation and has been widely used in the near Sells, Arizona in Pima production of fiber, food and county. He also reported that Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2004 drink. It has been introduced in there may also be some nat- Arizona, California and many ural populations in the moun- southern states where it is re- Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2003 tains, but no actual popula- Description ceiving much attention. It is also tions were confirmed. It is Most plants are slightly blue-green, dark grown in several Mediterranean Description also found in the state of So- green or even olive green in color. The leaf countries, Africa and the far If the habitat, range, care and other infor- nora, Mexico in several loca- of a mature plant can exceed slightly over east. mation about this plant seems the same as tions. 25 inches in length and have sharp brown Agave americana, it is. Varital differences teeth along the margins. Some plants pro- Size: Commonly 5 to over 10 are found in many plants and this plant is duce offsets while others have none. feet in height and 10 or more one of those. The leaves of marginata are Size: Can be found growing feet wide. usually darker green in color and have a to about 3.5 feet in height Shape: Rosette yellow or creamy white marginal band that and almost as wide. Flowers: The inflorescence of will extend the entire length. See the pho- Shape: Rosette this Agave is a very impressive tograph. These bands may look somewhat Flowers: The flowers are sight as the stalk can rise to over uneven and sometimes will vary in size light green or yellow and can 24 feet in height. The flowers are from leaf to leaf. appear very early in the yellow. spring during March or April. Item ID: 57 Family: Agavaceae Item ID: 60 Genus: Agave Family: Cactaceae Species: colorata Genus: Common Name: No common Species: fissuratus name available Common Name: Living Rock, Habitat: This species does not Star Cactus, Star Rock, extend far from the coastal re- Chautle, Sunami, Ci- gions and should be considered marron a coastal species. It is usually Habitat: Plants are found in found growing in scattered are- and around limestone hills as along rocky hillsides and of- where they are often barely ten associated with scrub vege- exposed above the surface of tation and small thorn shrubs the ground. They are situated and trees. in rocky areas and are most Range: It is found in the Mexi- often found in exposed loca- can states of southern Sonora tions among size rocks and extends into northern Si- and gravel. Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2003 naloa. The plants are sparse Range: This species is found individuals and colonies are not inside the United States from Description commonly seen. areas of the Big Bend east to This is a single stem species but can be Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2003 Care: This agave can be easily the Pecos River. It extends rarely found with multiple heads. The plant grown in almost any desert soil north only a couple of miles is usually a grayish green color and the sur- Description in and around Phoenix or Tuc- or so from the Rio Grande face is very firm and rocky to the touch. The The beautiful leaves of this plant are son, Arizona and is very easily except for the Big Bend area underground tuberous root can extend be- slightly banded by leaf growth and im- cared for. It really needs no where it can be found to near low the soil several inches. My experience is pression. This banding adds a nice ad- care if well established and can the town of Alpine within the that the diameter of the plant usually is dition to the attraction of this agave. A survive for many years. Some range and is widely distribut- about the same length as the root. plants may need a nice rocky leaf can be over 6 inches wide and as ed. Southward it extends into garden position and this will long as 24 inches. The margins of each Mexico where and is found in also give the plant a more nat- leaf presents a rather undulated growth the states of Coahuila, Chi- ural setting. Full sun is sug- that is accented with strong brown huahua and Durango. gested for this species and will teeth. The leaf also feels a little like insure the beautiful, healthy, slightly rough sandpaper and the blue- blue-gray leaf color. gray color is unmistakable. Size: This is not a large grow- Propagation: Propagated by ing species and a large speci- seed or offsets. men may only be 6 inches in Size: Agave colorata is a rather diameter and about 1 inch or small to medium size plant. less in height. Mature plants usually do not Shape: Rosette exceed 30 inches in height. Flowers: The Flowers of this Shape: Rosette species appear from October Flowers: The flower stalk or to November. The flower col- shaft can extend as tall as 8 or can be from an extremely feet and is usually a late winter light pink to almost magenta bloomer. The flower color is with variations of pink being yellow. the most prominent. light

Item ID: 62 Item ID: 63 Family: Liliaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Aloe Genus: Cylindropuntia Species: ferox Species: arbuscula Common Name: Cape Aloe, Common Name: Pencil Chol- Bitter Aloe, Kaapse aalwyn or la umhlaba Habitat: Found in sandy or Habitat: Found in rocky hills gravelly desert soils of low and scrub grassland areas. washes, flats and grasslands Range: is distribut- from around 1,000 to 3,500 ed throughout a large area feet elevation. along the eastern regions of Range: This species is found South Africa. within Maricopa, Pinal, Pima, Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2004 Care: This species is hardy Yavapai, Santa Cruz and Co- through Zone 9 and will grow chise counties in southern Ari- Description well in areas in and around zona. It then extends into So- Easily identified from other native chollas nora and as far south as Sina- Tucson. The growth rate of this and so called "pencil chollas" by the some- loa, Mexico. aloe can be quite moderate and what yellowish green stem color and Photo Courtesy of Kevin Barber ©2003 Care: This Cylindropuntia can some would consider it a slow smooth surface. The further spaced sheath grower. With a little extra at- be easily grown as a land- covered golden or dirty yellow spines can Description tention it can make a very im- scape cholla. It is not a prolif- be quite distinctive. Some variations in Having a beautiful Aloe such as Aloe ferox pressive member of your gar- ic growing species and is spines can be confusing as this species is den. growing in your yard can be a very re- known to be rather slow. It also seen with only a few large spines or warding experience. This plant is quite well Propagation: Propagation is can be coaxed into growth none at all. Plants grow from a single by seed or separation of the know for the large, rather long, green with extra water and fertilizer trunk. offsetting plants. leaves with the short well distributed prick- during the hot summer but Size: Aloe ferox is known as les (small thorn bumps). The one ex- this plant is a true desert one of the tree aloes and can tra special way of knowing Aloe ferox is by dweller that can easily do grow to around 15 feet in the crowning bright orange, stunningly without any extra care. It can height and is non-branching. beautiful flower display. also survive in almost any of Shape: Rosette our native soils and really Flowers: The flowers appear needs very little extra effort above the plant in a candelabra by the gardener. bracket of bright to dark or- Propagation: Propagated ange colors. from seed. Quicker and easier grown by removing some of the numerous joint stems. Size: This plant can get as large as 6 feet wide and at- tain a height of over 8.5 feet. Shape: Padded/Jointed Flowers: The flower color is greenish yellow or sometimes a light reddish brown.

Item ID: 67 Item ID: 68 Family: Cactaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Cylindropuntia Genus: Cylindropuntia Species: kleiniae var. tetra- Species: imbricata cantha Common Name: Tree Cac- Common Name: Klein's tus, Cane Cactus, Cane Cholla, Klein Pencil Cholla, Cholla, Candles Thin Cane Cholla Habitat: The habitat of this Habitat: This cholla is usual- cactus is the rocky and ly found near wash areas and sandy soils found through- desert flats and also occurs out a variety of localities in the low hills. Elevations for from 3,500 to over 6,000 this species is from 2,000 to feet elevation. It can often as much as 4,000 feet. be seen growing in arid Photos Courtesy of Karen Keller ©2005 Range: The distribution for grasslands but may also ap- this plant can be somewhat pear along lower mountain Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2005 Shape: Padded/Jointed wide spread although it is not hillsides and extensive val- Flowers: Flowers appear in late April an overly common species leys. Description through May. The common flower color is wherever it is found. In Ari- Range: This Cylindropuntia The joints of this cholla are usually about 2 usually either dark reddish lavender, ma- zona it has the largest popu- is found from the southern to 6 inches in length. They are somewhat genta, or a deep -pink. These colors lation concentrated in and parts of Colorado into and dark green in color and equipped with for- are the most common ones found in this around Tucson, but it is also through New Mexico, south- midable barbed spines .25 to 1 inch in species, but others have been seen. seen in Yavapai, Navajo, Gi- west Kansas and Oklahoma. length. la, Pinal, Pima and Cochise Then extends southward County. Southward it extends throughout the western Description through Sonora and into Si- parts of Texas. It is found in One distinctive feature of Cylindropuntia naloa, Mexico. limited colonies in south- imbricata is the rather thick, heavy stems eastern Arizona and extends and the large elongated tubercles. The Size: Rather large mature below the border into Chi- beautiful spring flower display is always a plants can be found growing huahua, Mexico. real spring treat. The rather small spine to over 7 feet tall and up to 8 clusters can be quite dangerous with each feet wide. In cultivation, very spine being equipped with notable barbs. large plants can found. Size: This is a rather large Spines are from .25 to a little over an inch Shape: Padded/Jointed species that can be at least in length. Flowers: Flowers are com- 10 feet tall and can extend monly found to be somewhat to over 6 feet in width. of a light pink color with darker outer petals or some- times even darker or lighter. The flower size is approxi- mately 1 to 1.5 inches wide.

Item ID: 71 Item ID: 45 Family: Cactaceae Family: Cactaceae Genus: Genus: Ferocactus Species: vivipara var. bisbee- Species: cylindraceus ana Common Name: Common Name: Bisbee - Barrel Cactus, Fire Barrel Cac- hive Cactus, Beehive Cactus tus, California Barrel, Cliff Habitat: This species is usually Barrel found in grassland or the plains Habitat: This Ferocactus is but also is found in the hills and found in desert soils, sandy mountain areas growing with a gravel areas and very rocky variety of other plants. It can be hillsides and mountainous lo- associated with the Oak and Ju- cations. niper woodland areas as well as Range: A rather widespread Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins the scrub brush plains and species that occurs in loca- ©2005 grassland communities. Photo Courtesy of Karen Keller ©2004 tions from just west of Tuc- Range: Variety bisbeeana is son, Arizona in Pima county Description widely distributed in parts of Description and north in Pinal, Maricopa, The "Compass Barrel" is a really beau- southern Arizona from the east- Variety bisbeeana is one of about eight known Yuma, Yavapai, Mohave and tiful species and can be best described ern parts of Maricopa through vivipara varieties. With variety bisbeeana their Coconino counties. In Califor- as the twisted spine barrel. The spines Pima, Pinal, Gila, Santa Cruz can be some obvious difference in appearanc- nia it is found in Imperial, San are closely spaced and the flowers and Cochise counties. It also es. Some plants may have short, very white Diego, San Bernardino and sometimes have difficulty opening ful- extends through the southern spines and others may have a more robust Riverside counties then south ly. The above photo is of a thin, golden part of New Mexico and into appearance with longer whitish spines with into Mexico and Baja Califor- spined plant but most will be spined in Chihuahua and Sonora, Mexico. rusty to dark brown tips. Some plants cluster nia. shades of red along with gray or even It is found in a variety of loca- freely and will have smaller stems while oth- a dull white or golden color. This barrel tions from 2,500 to 5,000 feet ers may have much larger stems. Variety in Size: Plants are cylindrical will usually grow slightly toward the elevation. this favorite vivipara species is quite well and somewhat barrel shaped. south or southwest as is the compass known. This species can grow to as indication. Size: Single plants may be 2 tall as about 9 feet or rarely inches wide and more than 3 larger. The diameter of the inches in height. In age plants plant can be as much as 14 may cluster and there have inches. been reports of plants with as Shape: Globular many as 100 or more heads. Flowers: Flowers are yellow Some of these clusters can be sometimes with a slight tint of as much as 24 or more inches in red along the outer portions. diameter. Shape: Clustering Flowers: Flowering usually be- gins in late May or June. The flowers are from a dusty pale pink toward the interior to a darker more vibrant pink at the tips.

Item ID: 46 Family: Cactaceae Genus: Ferocactus Species: emoryi Common Name: Coville's Barrel, Emory's Cactus, Nail Keg Barrel Habitat: Usually found in rocky soils asso- ciated with hillside environments, but in some areas in Sonora, Mexico plants are often found growing in plains and grass- land areas. Located from around sea level to over 3,000 feet elevation. Range: The northern limit of this species is Photo Courtesy of Vonn Watkins ©2003 in and around the Sierra Estrella moun- tains just southwest of Phoenix, Arizona. Description South in Pima County near Ajo and into blue green/gray stem (skin) color seed- the Pima Indian Reservation and Organ ling plants will transform to a more deep green Pipe Cactus National Park then all the way color in mature plants. Small as well as along the coastal region of the state of So- juveniles of look nothing like a nora, Mexico to just below the city of large mature plant. If you have a small plant and Guaymas. watch it grow over the years to a flowering size Care: This barrel is a choice garden favor- this transformation will be much more evident ite from Phoenix south to Tucson as well as and understood. The reddish colored spines on other areas around southern Arizona. A smaller plants will eventually convert to gray or very easy to care for plant that is well suit- even light straw colors on larger specimens. ed for a harsh desert environment. Plants grown in a desert garden area need little or no extra care but can be given fertilizer as well as a little extra water to insure healthy growth. Propagation: Propagation of this species is by seed. Size: Large mature specimens at least 6 feet in height to over 2 feet in diameter can be found. Shape: Globular Flowers: Flowers are somewhat of a dark red color and can be seen usually during the month of August.