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Devil Club Cholla
(Grusonia kunzei)
SOUTH OF ADMINISTRATION
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| Walk
back to
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Devil Club Cholla |
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(Grusonia kunzei) |
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SOUTH OF ADMINISTRATION |
| 16 | A low sprawling cactus forming a formidible groundcover. Prevents pedestrians from cutting corners through the cactus garden! |
| In Depth | Grusonia kunzei, Devil Club Cholla |
| Location: SOUTH OF ADMINISTRATION | |
| Family: Cactaceae, the Cactus family | |
| Distribution: Southwestern USA and Mexico | |
| Habitat: Low deserts | |
| Habit: Sprawling, with jointed stems | |
| Flowering: Summer | |
| Natural History Notes: The genus name commemorates H. Gruson, a plant collector. The club-chollas were long placed in the genus Opuntia, but studies have recently suggested that they be separated from the other chollas. This species is found in Arizona, California, and Mexico. Distinguishing Characteristics: A low-growing plant forming a mat or thicket of jointed stems. It does not have the upright growth form or a "trunk" characteristic of chollas of the genus Cylindropuntia. The spines are strong and flattened. The flowers are yellow and about two inches wide, followed by dry spiny fruits. Human Uses: Limited uses as ornamentals and slingshot ammunition. |