Scop x Yowie

SCOP - "Scopulicola
Growth Form: A columnar cactus that can grow quite large, typically reaching 2-4 meters (6.5-13 feet) tall, though some can reach up to 5 meters. Stems are usually 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) in diameter. It typically grows as a single column and branches from the base, though it's relatively rare for it to produce numerous side shoots compared to some pachanoi varieties.
Stems: Characterized by a nice, dark green epidermis, sometimes with a bluish hue.
Ribs: Distinctive for usually having 4-6 ribs, with five being the most common. The ribs are often fairly pronounced.
Spines: This is one of its most defining features. Adult plants are known for their unusually short spines, often only 1.5 mm long, or even being nearly spineless (lack spines entirely). Seedlings might have slightly longer, needle-like spines (2-3 mm). This makes it a popular choice for growers who prefer less thorny cacti.
Areoles: Areoles are small, sunken, and have very little white fluff/wool.
Flowers: Produces large, white, funnel-shaped flowers that are typically 15-22 cm (6-9 inches) long. These flowers are nocturnal (open at night) but often stay open until late morning, especially on cooler days.
Fruits: Green, up to 6 cm thick.
Hardiness: T. scopulicola is quite tough and resilient, similar to T. bridgesii. It is drought-resistant and can tolerate strong summer rainfalls. It's also relatively cold-hardy, potentially withstanding short night frosts down to -5°C (23°F), but it's crucial to keep them completely dry over winter if temperatures drop low to prevent rot. They prefer purely mineral soil mixes that dry quickly.

'Yowie':
Origin: 'Yowie' is a famous Australian clone of Trichocereus pachanoi. It originated in Yarrawonga, Victoria, Australia. It's believed to have been imported to Australia from South America, possibly by the renowned cactus collector Harry Blossfeld.
Naming: The clone was introduced by a forum member named Marsha (formerly known as "Yowie") on the SAB (Shaman Australis Botanicals) forum, hence its common name. The mother plant of this clone is part of the "Australian Fields collection."
Characteristics:
Spination: A distinct characteristic of 'Yowie' is its unique spination, often consisting of two parallel spines per areole that point downwards.
Ribs: It's noted for having very pronounced ribs.
Appearance Variability: Its overall appearance is highly variable and greatly depends on its growing environment.
Similarity to Ecuadorian/Peruvian forms: Many consider 'Yowie' highly representative of Ecuadorian or Peruvian Trichocereus pachanoi genetics. Similar plants are found across Australia and the world, leading to some discussion about whether it's a true clone or a representative local type.
Growth: Like other T. pachanoi, 'Yowie' is a fast-growing columnar cactus. Its stems are light to dark green, sometimes glaucous, and can grow up to 15cm in diameter with an average of 5-8 ribs. Spines can vary in length, often shorter in cultivated varieties, sometimes almost spineless.
The Hybrid 'Hutchison 1597' x 'Yowie':
When a hybrid is created by crossing two specific named clones, the goal is often to combine desirable traits from both parents or to create novel characteristics.
Genetics: This cross brings together the historically significant, wild-collected Peruvian genetics of 'Hutchison 1597' with the distinct and well-known Australian 'Yowie' clone. Since Trichocereus is generally self-sterile, seeds are produced with one father and one mother plant, which cannot be the same clone.
Expected Traits: While specific detailed characteristics of this particular hybrid would emerge from observing its growth, one could expect a combination of traits from both parents:
Robust growth and form typical of T. pachanoi.
Potential for the unique 'Yowie' spination (two downward-pointing spines) or variations of it.
Influence of the 'Hutchison 1597' lineage in terms of overall vigor and appearance.
Availability: These types of specific crosses are often available as cuttings or seedlings from specialist cactus vendors, enthusiasts, or through online communities. You might find them listed by names like "Pacific Cactus 'Hutchison 1597' x 'Yowie'" or similar variations, indicating the seed producer if "Pacific Cactus" refers to a grower.
In summary, 'Hutchison 1597' x 'Yowie' represents a carefully selected cross between two highly regarded and distinct Trichocereus pachanoi clones, promising a vigorous plant with interesting genetic potential.