1. Plural of cholla; spiny cacti of the genus Cylindropuntia, native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, with cylindrical jointed stems and clusters of sharp spines.
Usage: Cholla is the singular form; chollas is the standard plural.; Common in desert regions of Arizona, California, and the Southwest.

Examples

• The desert landscape was dotted with chollas and other hardy plants.
• Hikers must be careful to avoid the sharp spines of chollas when walking through the Arizona desert.
• Chollas bloom with bright flowers in spring, attracting bees and hummingbirds.
• The jumping cholla is one of the most dangerous species of chollas found in the region.
• Native peoples traditionally harvested the buds of certain chollas for food.