Peruvian torch
| Peruvian torch cactus | |
|---|---|
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| Echinopsis peruviana | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| (unranked): | Core eudicots |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Echinopsis |
| Species: | E. peruviana |
| Binomial name | |
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Echinopsis peruviana (Britton & Rose) Friedrich & G.D.Rowley |
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| Synonyms | |
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Trichocereus peruvianus Britton & Rose |
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Trichocereus peruvianus Britton & Rose
Echinopsis peruviana (syn. Trichocereus peruvianus), Peruvian torch cactus, is a fast-growing columnar cactus native to the western slope of the Andes in Peru, between about 2,000–3,000 m (6,600–9,800 ft) above sea level. It contains the psychoactive alkaloid mescaline as well as other alkaloids, although reported levels vary considerably and do not approach the concentrations found in Echinopsis pachanoi.
The plant is bluish-green in color, with frosted stems, and 6-9 broadly rounded ribs; it has large, white flowers. It can grow up to 3–6 m (9.8–19.7 ft) tall, with stems up to 8–18 cm (3.1–7.1 in) in diameter; it is fully erect to begin with, but later possibly arching over, or even becoming prostrate. Groups of 6-8 honey-colored to brown rigid spines, up to 4 cm (1.6 in) in length, with most about 1 cm (0.39 in), are located at the nodes, which are evenly spaced along the ribs, up to approximately 2.5 cm (0.98 in) apart.
Echinopsis pachanoi is a related species with short spines, which is nearly identical in appearance to its relative. It is therefore possible that many misidentified plants are being sold (both as Peruvian torch and as San Pedro cactus), but since local variations as well as hybrids do exist (both cultivated and natural), this will obviously make proper identification difficult.
Echinopsis peruviana ssp. puquiensis (Rauh & Backeb.) C.Ostolaza Nano
Some varieties, with scientifically invalid names, of Echinopsis peruviana are:
USDA Hardiness Zones: 10-12
Echinopsis peruviana can be propagated from either seeds or cuttings.
Like many other plants, Echinopsis peruviana can be propagated from cuttings. The result is a genetic clone of the parent plant. For example, the top 15 cm (5.9 in) end of a cactus column can be cleanly removed with a knife. The cutting can be left to heal for about two weeks in the scattered or indirect light, by laying it upon its side. It should be kept away from excessive moisture that will encourage growth of an opportunistic infection, and should receive good airflow at this time. The plant will heal by forming a calloused seal to withstand bacterial and fungal attack such as mold. The unrooted cutting can be kept upright in a propped up position for an extended period of time (2+ years) without harm. Often roots will emerge from the lowest point of the plant between 3–6 months time. Rooting hormone is not required and its use may damage the soft tissues of the plant, giving rise to bacterial or fungal rot that may kill the clone.
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Wikipedia