China Gold (Cuttings)

This is a picture of the actual mother plant you will be getting a cutting from.

'China Gold' is a popular variegated cultivar, often associated with Trichocereus Pachanoi (San Pedro cactus). Here's a summary of what's known about it:

Identity and Origin:

Likely a Trichocereus Pachanoi cultivar: While some collectors speculate it might have Trichocereus Peruvianus characteristics due to its shorter spines, it's generally believed to be a cultivar of Trichocereus Pachanoi.

Asian Origin: It's described as a clone that originated in Asia, where it is propagated and distributed. This explains the "China Gold" designation.

Characteristics:

Variegation: The most defining feature is its variegation, which means it has sections of different colors, typically green and yellow. This variegation can sometimes be "bi-lateral," with one side lacking chlorophyll.

Shorter Spines: Compared to some other Trichocereus varieties, 'China Gold' tends to maintain shorter spines, even in mature specimens.

Columnar Growth: Like other Trichocereus, it exhibits a columnar growth habit.

Potential for Cresting: It can sometimes display crested or monstrous forms, adding to its unique appearance. However, as with any variegated or crested specimen, the variegation and cresting can "come and go" in new growth or pups. Some parts may even revert to the natural green color.

Flowers: While the primary appeal is its variegated stem, Trichocereus pachanoi typically produces large, fragrant white flowers that open at night and last for about two days.

Cultivation:

Light: Like most cacti, it requires plenty of bright light, ideally full sun for several hours a day to thrive. If grown indoors, it needs the sunniest spot available.

Soil: It needs fertile, free-draining soil. A good mix would include an inorganic, lightweight substrate like pumice or perlite.

Watering: While susceptible to fungal diseases if over-watered, Trichocereus are generally more tolerant of moisture than many other cacti, especially during their growth phase in warm weather.

Temperature: It can tolerate temperatures below that of many other cacti, as its parent species is native to high altitudes in the Andes. USDA hardiness zones 8b to 10 are generally suitable, with minimum temperatures between -9.4 °C and 10 °C.

Propagation: It can be propagated from cuttings, which will result in a genetic clone of the parent plant. Grafting is often recommended for variegated cacti, as they can be slower to root and grow, and more prone to issues due to the lack of chlorophyll in certain areas.

In essence, 'China Gold' is a visually striking variegated San Pedro cactus, valued by collectors for its unique color patterns and columnar growth. Its Asian origin and consistent shorter spines are key identifiers.