CACTUS POLASKIA CHULA

Botanical Name:
Polaskia chende (Polaskia chula)

Common Names:
Polaskia, Chula Cactus

Mature Size:
10–15 feet (3–4.5 meters) in height, 6–10 feet (1.8–3 meters) in spread

Light Requirements:
Full sun

Soil Requirements:
Well-drained soils; tolerates rocky, sandy, and poor substrates

Water Needs:
Very low; extremely drought-tolerant once established

Stems:
Tall, columnar, branching cactus with blue-green stems and prominent ribs lined with small clusters of spines; forms tree-like structures with age

Flowers:
Creamy-white to greenish flowers bloom along the ribs in spring; followed by edible red fruits

Growth Rate:
Slow to moderate

Uses:

Ornamental Plant:
Polaskia chende is admired for its upright, architectural form and branching stems, adding height and structure to xeriscapes, cactus gardens, and modern desert landscapes.

Xeriscaping:
An excellent choice for low-water-use gardens, thriving in arid regions and requiring minimal care.

Sculptural Accent Plant:
Its dramatic silhouette and tree-like character make it a standout specimen in minimalist and naturalistic designs.

Benefits:

• Extreme Drought Tolerance: Thrives in harsh, dry environments with almost no supplemental irrigation.

• Low Maintenance: Hardy, pest-resistant, and long-lived; requires little more than occasional cleanup of old stems.

• Ecological Contribution: Flowers attract pollinators; fruits support wildlife and are edible.

• Architectural Form: Its bold, branching shape provides lasting visual interest year-round.

• Cold Hardy: Tolerates occasional frost, making it suitable for a range of dry climates.

Polaskia chende is a resilient, slow-growing columnar cactus that delivers height, drama, and rugged elegance to arid and water-wise landscapes. Its sculptural form, edible fruit, and minimal care needs make it an exceptional choice for collectors and sustainable gardens.