Cholla and Nopal are both types of CACTI. Cholla is a type of cactus that grows in the desert regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It has cylindrical stems with spines and small flowers. Nopal is a type of cactus native to Mexico and parts of the southwestern United States. It has flat, oval-shaped pads with spines and edible fruits. Both Cholla and Nopal are drought-tolerant and require little maintenance.