Baker 5452 (Cuttings)

Baker 5452

Clone from the Bill Baker collection. Collected by Julio Cruz: Murillo, Jayuri Province, Bolivia. 20 March, 1983.

 'Baker 5452' is a specific cultivar within the Trichocereus genus, which is now often classified under Echinopsis. Here's a summary of what's known about it:

Identity and Classification:

Parentage/Origin: While the exact origin of the "Baker 5452" designation isn't widely detailed, it's known to be a Trichocereus Bridgesii cultivar or a hybrid that is heavily Bridgesii-dominant. Some sources specifically mention it as a Trichocereus hybrid Macrogonus X Bridgesii Baker 5452, suggesting a cross between Trichocereus Macrogonus and Trichocereus Bridgesii. The "Baker" part of the name might refer to a collector or a collection number.

Species Relation: Trichocereus Bridgesii (also known as Echinopsis lageniformis) is a well-known columnar cactus species native to Bolivia. It's often called "Bolivian Torch Cactus" or "Achuma."

Characteristics (General Trichocereus Bridgesii traits, likely applicable to 'Baker 5452'):

Growth Habit: Columnar cactus, typically fast-growing, branching at the base to form shrubby or small tree-like structures. Can reach significant heights (2-5 meters or more in its natural habitat).

Stems: Pale green to bluish or glaucous (powdery blue-green) in color, becoming darker with age. They usually have 4 to 8 ribs, which are obtuse and separated by broad but shallow intervals.

Spines: Often quite prominent, yellowish to honey-colored or brown, and can be acicular (needle-like) to subulate (awl-shaped). They are typically unequal in length, potentially growing up to 6-7 cm (sometimes even 10 cm). On mature plants, they are spaced evenly on the ribs.

Areoles: Large, evenly spaced, and may have a V-shaped notching above them.

Flowers: Large, nocturnal (night-blooming), fragrant, and white. They can be up to 18 cm long.

Specific Information on 'Baker 5452':

Appearance: Based on anecdotal reports and sales listings, 'Baker 5452' often displays characteristics typical of T. Bridgesii, including prominent spines and a generally robust columnar form.

Cultivar Recognition: It's recognized as a desirable cultivar among collectors, often propagated through cuttings.

Mescaline Content: Some sources mention "Mescaline confirmed in analysis but unpublished" for 'Baker 5452', suggesting it's known to contain mescaline, similar to its Bridgesii lineage.

Hybrids: 'Baker 5452' is also used in hybridizations, with crosses like "Baker 5452 x Lumberjack" being known in the community.

Growing Conditions (General Trichocereus care):

Sunlight: Thrives in ample sunlight. Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. If growing indoors, a south or west-facing window is ideal.

Soil: Requires well-draining cactus mix. A blend of sand, perlite, and other aerating ingredients is suitable. Poor drainage can lead to rot.

Watering: Water sparingly. During the active growing season (spring and summer), water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. In fall and winter, significantly reduce watering or keep the soil perfectly dry, especially in cooler temperatures. Trichocereus from Andean regions with summer rainfall are more forgiving of watering errors during their growing season.

Temperature: Can withstand relatively low temperatures compared to many other cacti, especially if kept dry. Some Trichocereus Bridgesii are hardy to around 14°F (-10°C).

Propagation: Can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. Cuttings are a popular method: allow them to callus (dry and form a scab) for a few days to weeks before planting in well-draining soil.

Important Note: While Trichocereus cacti are widely cultivated for ornamental purposes, it's crucial to be aware that in many countries, the cultivation of cacti for the purpose of extracting or consuming mescaline is illegal. Always consult local laws and regulations.