Knowledgebase

Could I grow a Snow Leopard Cholla in the mid-Willamette Valley? #849311

Asked September 10, 2023, 12:31 PM EDT

While travelling, I saw a beautiful cactus in a botanical garden: Cylindropuntia "Snow Leopard". Any chance I could grow it in the mid-Willamette Valley? Would it get too wet in the winter? Would it be amenable to living in a pot, and I could bring it inside during the winter? Thank you for your help!

Linn County Oregon

Expert Response

Dear Jane,

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension about Cylindropuntia whipplei "Snow Leopard". It looks like a lovely plant, however, I am not familiar with it. 

While the plant withstands a wide range of temperatures, it is found naturally in dry and high elevations with slightly calcitic soils, so I suspect it may not do well outdoors in the Willamette Valley. This plant is said to grow outdoors in the following regions:
  • Yucca Valley, California
  • Albuquerque, New Mexico
  • Brigham City, Utah
You might have success growing it in a large pot that is brought indoors during rainy seasons. I suggest you try to contact the Botanical Garden in Santa Fe to see if they can give you any specific information.
I hope this information is helpful. Please write again whenever you have questions.
Best Regards, Replied September 11, 2023, 1:05 PM EDT

Loading ...