The Ocotillo is not a true cactus. It’s a shrub! Although the difference is unclear to me. The ocotillo will blossom red flowers whenever water abounds. Looks like this one could use a drink in Joshua Tree National Park.
This cholla, known as the teddy bear cholla, is not something to play with, or hug. The spines are uniquely designed to embed in skin, leather and anything else and are known to be persistent and painful to remove.
This ocotillo bush looks like it has been burned in the heat of Joshua Tree NP.