TPQC (Cuttings)

"TPQC" is a particularly interesting and somewhat debated clone within the Trichocereus (San Pedro) community, primarily known for its tendency towards cresting or "quasi-cresting."
Here's what's known about TPQC:
Origin and Identity:
Meaning of TPQC: It stands for Trichocereus Pachanoi Quasi Crest (or sometimes "Trichocereus Peruvianus Quasi Cristata," reflecting some of the debate around its exact species).
Origin Story: The history of this clone is quite unique and well-documented within the Trichocereus community. It originated from a collector named Nitrogen who purchased a "stand-out looking Pachanoi/Peruvianus" amidst a batch of common "PC" (Predominant Cultivar) Trichocereus Pachanoi at a local Target garden center in the USA.
Crested Tendency: Somewhere along the line, this original plant started to crest. It's believed that the cresting might have been triggered by damage, such as a snail attack, at Nitrogen's location. This suggests that while it has the genetic potential to crest, its cresting might be induced by environmental factors or injury.
Altmans Connection: It's also noted that Altmans (a large commercial cactus grower) randomly mixes these among their "PC" specimens. This implies that the original plant might have come from Altmans' stock.
Species Debate: While it's most commonly associated with Trichocereus pachanoi, some sources and discussions lean towards it being a Trichocereus peruvianus or a pachanoi/peruvianus hybrid due to certain characteristics like spine length in its offspring. However, the prevailing view is that it is a T. pachanoi that developed a cresting tendency.
Key Characteristics:

"Quasi-Crested" Growth: The most defining characteristic is its "quasi-cresting" nature. This means it doesn't consistently grow as a full, stable crest (like T. pachanoi f. cristata). Instead, it can produce crested sections, revert to normal columnar growth, and then potentially re-crest. This "on-again, off-again" cresting habit is what gives it the "quasi-crest" designation.
Aesthetic Appeal: Despite the variable cresting, it's considered a beautiful Trichocereus, often displaying bluish-green to teal colors.
Spines: In its columnar form, and in its seedlings, TPQC can produce longer-than-average spines for a pachanoi, which further fuels the debate about its exact species identity (as longer spines are more common in T. peruvianus).
Vigor: Misplant (a prominent Trichocereus seed breeder) has stated that TPQC is one of his fastest growers when used as a parent. This indicates it's a vigorous and healthy clone.
Monstrose Tendency: Beyond cresting, 'TPQC' genes also have a tendency to produce monstrose plants (abnormal, lumpy growth) in its offspring, especially when crossed with other monstrose varieties like TPM (Trichocereus pachanoi f. monstrosa).
Cultivation and Availability:

Propagation: As a clone, TPQC is primarily propagated through cuttings. Both crested and reverted (normal columnar) cuttings are sold. The reverted cuttings have the potential to re-crest, particularly if damaged or stressed.
Popularity in Breeding: TPQC is highly valued and extensively used as a parent plant in hybridization programs, especially by breeders like Misplant. Its genetics are sought after for producing unique and often variegated or monstrous offspring. Examples of crosses include "TPQC x TPM" and "Ogun x TPQC."
Demand: Due to its interesting growth habit, aesthetic appeal, and desirable genetics for breeding, TPQC remains a highly sought-after clone in the Trichocereus community.
In summary, 'TPQC' is a famous Trichocereus pachanoi clone (with some peruvianus characteristics) originating from a serendipitous find at a Target garden center. It's renowned for its "quasi-cresting" habit, beautiful bluish-green coloration, and vigorous growth, making it a favorite among collectors and breeders for its unique and variable forms.