Huarazensis x Yowie (Cuttings)

"Huarazensis" is a cultivated variety, likely selected for specific desirable traits, rather than a naturally occurring wild species.

Origin: As the name suggests, "Huarazensis" is generally believed to originate from the area around Huaraz, Peru.

Debate: There's some discussion among enthusiasts about whether "Trichocereus Huarazensis" should be considered a distinct species or simply a Peruvian locality variety of Trichocereus Pachanoi (making it Trichocereus Pachanoi var. Huarazensis). Regardless of the formal classification, it's recognized as a unique form.

Limited Collections: Many cultivated "Huarazensis" plants are believed to originate from just two reported collections made in or near Huaraz, Peru. Some seeds are also available from specialized growers, often from hand-pollinated crosses.

Characteristics:

Distinctive Growth: "Huarazensis" is noted for its quite distinctive stem growth and flower buds compared to other Trichocereus varieties.

Appearance: One reported characteristic is deep "seagull notches" (indentations along the ribs) and a bright green color.

Skin Texture: Some growers describe its skin as "very textured and almost rough," which is a unique trait not commonly found in other Trichocereus.

Growth Rate: It can be a fast-growing variety.

Flowers: The flowers are typically white to whitish.

Sensitivity: Some growers have noted that "Huarazensis" can be sensitive to heat, showing wrinkles before other Trichocereus varieties in high temperatures.

Cultivation:

Hardiness Zones: It can grow happily in USDA Hardiness Zones 8-11 outdoors, or indoors in suitable conditions.

Soil: Prefers mildly acidic to mildly alkaline, fertile, and well-draining soil. A good cactus mix often includes inorganic lightweight substrates like pumice or perlite.

Sunlight: Thrives in ample sunlight, preferably light shade to full sun. Indoors, a south or west-facing window is ideal. However, be mindful of its reported sensitivity to extreme heat and potential for sunburn if overexposed, especially in hot climates.

Watering: Like most cacti, it requires less frequent watering than typical houseplants. Allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during winter months when the plant is dormant. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases.

Spacing: If planting multiple cacti, space them at least a meter apart to allow for mature growth.

Etiolation: In winter or low-light conditions, plants may etiolate (become thin and stretched) due to insufficient light.

Propagation: Can be grown from seed or cuttings. Cuttings are often treated with horticultural sulfur on the cut end to prevent rot before rooting.

Overall:

"Trichocereus CV 'Huarazensis'" is an intriguing and sought-after Trichocereus cultivar, appreciated by collectors for its unique appearance and growth habits. While its exact classification is sometimes debated, its distinctive features make it a recognizable and desirable plant within the Trichocereus community.

'Yowie' refers to a specific cultivated clone of the cactus species Trichocereus Pachanoi, commonly known as San Pedro cactus. Here's a summary of what's known about it:

Origin and History:
'Yowie' is an Australian cultivated clone.
It is reported to have originated from the famous "Fields collection" and Yarrawonga in Victoria, Australia.
It's believed to have been imported to Australia from South America, possibly by the well-known cactus collector Harry Blossfeld.
Some enthusiasts consider 'Yowie' to be highly representative of the Ecuadorian or Peruvian gene pool of Trichocereus Pachanoi.
The name 'Yowie' was associated with a SAB forum member named Marsha, who was formerly known by the username "Yowie" and led another member to the Fields collection to obtain a cutting of the mother plant.

Characteristics:
Columnar stems: It has distinctive columnar stems.

Pronounced ribs: 'Yowie' is characterized by its very pronounced ribs.

Unique spination: A key identifying feature is its distinct spination, which typically consists of two parallel, downward-pointing, and comparatively lengthy spines per areole. This distinct spination has led some enthusiasts to suggest it might be a form of Trichocereus pallarensis.

Rapid growth: It is renowned for its rapid growth rate.

Color: Stems can be light to dark green, sometimes glaucous (bluish-green).

Flowers: Like other Trichocereus Pachanoi, it produces large, beautiful white-to-whitish flowers that typically bloom for a night or two.

Hardiness: It's a vigorous and hardy columnar cactus that can tolerate colder temperatures than many other cactus species, making it relatively easy to grow. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8b to 10.

Size: Under optimal conditions, it can reach heights of up to 6 meters (20 feet). Its stems can grow up to 15 cm (6 inches) in diameter and usually form six to eight ribs.
Cultivation:

Soil: Thrives in well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent soil mix.

Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sun until cuttings root.

Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases, though 'Yowie' is generally less sensitive than many other cacti, especially in warm weather during its growth phase.

Propagation: Can be propagated from cuttings. When rooting cuttings, insert the callused end about 3-4 cm into the soil, water lightly, and place in indirect sunlight. Roots typically form within a few weeks.

Growth Rate: Can grow up to 30 cm (12 inches) of new growth per year once established.
Uses:

Ornamental: 'Yowie' is a fantastic choice for adding exotic beauty to gardens and is a sought-after clone among collectors.