Buck-horn cholla

About Buck-horn cholla

Buck-horn cholla is a real treasure for the desert garden. Its cheerful yellow flowers bloom in spring and bring hungry bees right to your yard. Birds love to nest in its branches, and both birds and other wildlife depend on its fruit for food. The plant has an interesting branching pattern that looks almost sculptural, especially when it's covered in those bright blooms. It's a living part of your local ecosystem.

This native shrub is remarkably easygoing once established. Plant it in full sun where it gets good drainage, and then mostly leave it alone. It's built for hot, dry conditions and doesn't need much water or fussing. Like many native plants, it actually does better when you don't pamper it too much. Give it a home in your yard and you'll have a low-maintenance plant that keeps on giving, year after year.