Common Name(s): Desert Club Cholla, Devil Club Cholla

Synonym(s):

Family: Cactaceae

Native To: Desert Southwest

Native Habitat: Low deserts

Growth Habit: Sprawling, with jointed stems

Flowering: Summer

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.

Natural History and Cultivation 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.

Ethnobotany: Limited uses as ornamentals and slingshot ammunition.

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