KK 2150 (Cuttings)

'KK2150" is a prominent and somewhat debated clone within the Trichocereus (San Pedro) cactus community. The "KK" refers to Karel Kníže (1941-2018), a renowned Czech cactus collector and distributor who brought a vast number of South American cacti into cultivation worldwide.

Here's a detailed breakdown of what's known about KK2150:

Origin and Classification:

Collector: Karel Kníže collected the original material for KK2150.

Locality: It originates from Ayabaca, Peru, at an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level. Kníže's collection numbers often refer to the geographical area rather than specific species, which can lead to some confusion.

Species Debate: This is where it gets interesting. While commonly sold and referred to as Trichocereus Pachanoi 'KK 2150' (San Pedro), there's a recognized issue with Kníže's

labeling practices. Plants labeled "KK2150" have appeared in cultivation as:
Trichocereus Pachanoi (most common designation)
Trichocereus cuzcoensis
Trichocereus macrogonus
Trichocereus peruvianus
And even hybrids thereof.
This means that while the specific 'KK2150' clone offered by some nurseries is indeed a pachanoi (often stated as such by the grower or by Kníže himself in 2004), not all plants sold under the 'KK2150' label are genetically identical. It's crucial for buyers to verify the specific characteristics of the plant they are acquiring.

Clone Status: When a nursery sells 'KK2150' as a "CV." or "clone," it means their particular plant is a vegetative propagation from a specific mother plant they selected, which they identify as T. Pachanoi 'KK2150'.

Key Characteristics (generally for the T. Pachanoi form of KK2150):

Appearance: Typically described as a light green columnar cactus, sometimes with a bluish glaucous (waxy, powdery blue) coating. It grows as a robust, fast-growing columnar cactus.

Spines: It's noted for having very short spines, or sometimes being almost spineless, which is characteristic of many Trichocereus Pachanoi varieties.

Ribs: Like other Pachanoi types, it usually has 6-8 ribs.

Vigor: The Pachanoi form of KK2150 is often selected for its vigor and general quality in cultivation.

Flowers: Produces the characteristic large, white, nocturnal flowers of the Trichocereus genus.

Cultivation and Availability:

Propagation: 'KK2150' (the specific clone) is propagated through cuttings to ensure genetic identity. It can also be grown from seeds (if open-pollinated, resulting in variable phenotypes).

Popularity: Despite the potential for labeling confusion, 'KK2150' remains a popular clone among Trichocereus enthusiasts due to its lineage from Kníže and its desirable growth habits. It's often found on collectors' wishlists.

Hardiness: Like most Trichocereus Pachanoi, it is a relatively hardy cactus, tolerant of lower temperatures (down to -9°C / 15°F for short periods) and somewhat forgiving of watering compared to more delicate cacti, provided it has well-draining soil. It thrives in fertile, free-draining soil and benefits from regular watering during the growing season.

In summary, 'KK2150' is a Trichocereus clone (primarily Pachanoi) linked to Karel Kníže's collection from Ayabaca, Peru. While its specific classification can be ambiguous due to Kníže's varied collections under the same number, the Trichocereus pachanoi form of 'KK2150' is valued for its light green color, short spines, and vigorous growth, making it a desirable addition to many cactus collections.