This is the classic neotree cholla from the Chihuahuan Desert, with a distribution from southeastern Arizona, through New Mexico to Texas, and into Mexico. It is readily identifiable by the numerous lined-up (imbricated) tubercles on the stem, and this species has less spines than most Cylindropuntia. The flowers are reddish-purple. These plants appear to be able to withstand a low temperature of 0-10F. These plants are seedlings in 4-inch pots.