KK 339 (Cuttings)

All cuttings will be thick and ready to root. Please allow 5-7 days to dry if fresh cut.

'KK339' is a well-known cultivar of Trichocereus Pachanoi, commonly known as the San Pedro cactus. Here's what we know about it:

Origin and History:

Ecuadorian Pachanoi: 'KK339' is an Ecuadorian variety of Trichocereus Pachanoi.

Karel Kníže Distribution: It was originally distributed by Karel Kníže (often misspelled as Krazel Knize), a notable Czech cactus wholesaler and collector who was based in Peru. The "KK" in the name stands for Karel Kníže, and "339" is a collection number he assigned.

Chan Chan, Ecuador: The original location where this clone was collected is believed to be around Chan Chan, Ecuador, at an altitude of approximately 2000 meters above sea level.

Importation: This clone has been imported and distributed by various nurseries and enthusiasts around the world, including from places like Cactilicious Garden in South Australia and Trichocereus UK.

Characteristics and Appearance:

Classic Ecuadorian Form: 'KK339' is considered by many enthusiasts to be a classic and highly representative example of the typical Ecuadorian Trichocereus Pachanoi form.

Color: It is typically a deep green, though some clones can develop a glaucous blue hue when grown in indirect light.

Ribs and Notches: It usually has well-pronounced V-notches above each areole (the small, cushion-like structures from which spines and flowers emerge). It typically has 6-8 ribs.

Spines: Spines are highly variable, often wanting (absent), or when present, few (3-7), unequal, and generally short (1-2 cm long), ranging from dark yellow to light brown.

Growth: It's a fast-growing columnar cactus, capable of growing up to 30 cm per year under ideal conditions. Mature plants can reach 3-6 meters (or even up to 9-12 meters) tall and 6-15 cm in diameter.

Flowers: Like other Trichocereus Pachanoi, it produces large, fragrant white flowers that open at night and typically last for about two days. It can take 5-8 years for a mature plant to produce flowers.

Growing Conditions and Care:

Hardy and Tolerant: Trichocereus Pachanoi in general, including 'KK339', is known for being very hardy and weather tolerant. It can handle temperatures as low as -9°C for short periods.

Sunlight: Prefers a full sun position, but can also grow in partial shade. Excessive sunlight can cause sunburn and a yellowing (chlorotic) reaction.

Soil: Requires a fertile, well-drained potting mix. A good soil mix often includes an inorganic lightweight substrate like pumice or perlite.

Watering: Water well during the growing season (spring/summer) when the soil surface is dry. Reduce or cease watering in winter/cold periods, allowing the plants to enter dormancy. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases, though 'KK339' is generally less sensitive to this than many other cacti.

Fertilization: Apply fertilizer in spring and throughout the growing season.

Propagation: Easily propagated by cuttings. Once a cutting is taken and calloused, it can be placed about 1/2 to 1 inch deep in substrate, and new root growth usually appears within a few weeks to months.

Other Information:

Synonyms: Trichocereus Pachanoi is also known by its scientific synonym Echinopsis Pachanoi and common names like San Pedro cactus and Wachuma. There's some ongoing debate among taxonomists about the merger of Trichocereus into Echinopsis.

Cultural Significance: The San Pedro cactus (including varieties like 'KK339') has a long history of traditional use in Andean medicine and religious practices for over 3,000 years.

Kníže's Documentation: It's worth noting that Karel Kníže was not always meticulous about documenting and labeling his collections, which can sometimes lead to confusion regarding the precise origin or characteristics of some "KK" named plants. Some visually distinct plants have been lumped under the same "KK" number, and there are even reports of "KK339a" being a distinct type.

In summary, 'KK339' is a highly regarded and sought-after clone of Trichocereus Pachanoi known for its classic Ecuadorian appearance, robust growth, and relative ease of cultivation