Fools Breath (Cuttings)

Fools Breath:

"Fools Breath" is a highly sought-after cultivar of the cactus species Echinopsis lageniformis, often referred to by its older, more common name, Trichocereus Bridgesii. Here's what we know about it:

Origin and Hype: It originated from Moon Unit Botanica Australia and was imported into America several years ago, quickly gaining significant popularity and "ultimate hype" among cactus enthusiasts. It was initially claimed to be "THE" Bridgesii to have.
Appearance and Growth: "Fools Breath" is described as a "really beautiful Bridgesii" that can get quite thick and often goes "monstrose." Monstrose growth in cacti refers to an abnormal, mutated growth pattern that results in distorted, often undulating or convoluted stems, rather than the typical columnar shape. This makes it a unique and aesthetically pleasing "art piece" for collectors.
Availability: Due to its initial popularity and the rapid propagation by enthusiasts, it has become more widely available and can now be offered at a "reasonable price" considering its initial high demand.
Botanical Classification: Echinopsis lageniformis (syn. Trichocereus Bridgesii) is also known as Bolivian Torch cactus. It's native to departments of La Paz, Cochabamba, Tarija, and Chuquisaca, Bolivia, growing at altitudes of 1000 to 3300 meters.
Characteristics of Echinopsis lageniformis (the parent species):
Appearance: Light greenish to bluish in color, grows shrubby to tree-shaped, somewhat branching, and typically has four to eight ribs. It can grow 2–5 meters tall with stems up to 15–20 centimeters in diameter.
Areoles and Spines: Large areoles (where spines emerge) are 1.5 to 3 cm apart. It typically has two to six unequal spines ranging from honey-colored to brown, which can grow up to 0.1–7 cm in length.
Flowers: Produces long, funnel-shaped, fragrant white flowers (15-18 cm long) that open at night.
Fruits: Spherical and hairy, 4-6 cm long.
Traditional Use: Like other related species, it has ancient shamanic use in its native habitat due to its psychoactive alkaloid content, particularly mescaline. Levels of mescaline can vary considerably between specimens and sometimes be higher than in Echinopsis Pachanoi (San Pedro cactus).

In summary, "Fools Breath" is a highly regarded, monstrose cultivar of Echinopsis lageniformis known for its unique growth habit and its origins in the Australian cactus community, making it a desirable specimen for collectors.