Matucana (Rooted Plants)

This is the mother plant you will be getting a rooted cutting from. NOT the actual plant you will receive.

"Matucana" refers to a specific and highly regarded type of Trichocereus Peruvianus (Peruvian Torch Cactus) that originates from the Matucana region of Peru. It's renowned among collectors for its striking appearance and connection to a significant botanical area.
Here's a comprehensive overview:
Origin and Identity:
Geographical Origin: The name "Matucana" directly indicates its provenance: the Matucana region in the central Peruvian Andes. This area is a classic locality for Trichocereus peruvianus and is known for its robust and visually impressive populations.
Species: It is firmly identified as a form of Trichocereus peruvianus (now sometimes classified as Echinopsis peruviana).
"Landrace" Genetics: While often treated as a "CV." (cultivar) in the sense of a recognized type, "Matucana" primarily represents a landrace population from that specific region. This means it encompasses a certain degree of genetic variability, as plants grown from 'Matucana' seeds will show some phenotypic differences, though they share common regional traits.
Distributors: Many renowned cactus nurseries and collectors, such as Icaro DNA (Julio from Peru), have distributed seeds and cuttings labeled "Matucana" or "Icaro DNA Matucana," solidifying its reputation for quality genetics.
Key Characteristics:
Coloration: Matucana Trichocereus peruvianus is highly prized for its intense blue to glaucous blue-green coloration. This waxy, powdery blue coating (pruina) is particularly striking, especially when the plant is grown in ample sunlight.
Growth Form: It grows as a sturdy, thick columnar cactus. These plants are known for their vigorous growth and can reach impressive heights.
Ribs: Typically has a moderate number of well-defined ribs.
Spines: Matucana forms are known for their pronounced and often long spines. These spines can be stout, sharp, and vary in color from amber to brown or black, becoming darker with age. The length and density of spines can vary slightly among individual plants from the same region.
Vigor: These plants are generally robust and resilient, adapting well to cultivation provided their basic needs are met.
Flowers: Like other Trichocereus species, it produces large, showy, white, funnel-shaped flowers that are typically nocturnal (opening at night and sometimes remaining open into the morning).
Cultivation and Care:
Light: Requires plenty of bright, direct sunlight to develop its best coloration and compact growth. Full sun is ideal in most climates, though some afternoon shade might be beneficial in regions with extremely intense, scorching summer sun.
Soil: Absolutely requires excellent drainage. Use a specialized cactus or succulent potting mix, amending it with generous amounts of inorganic material like pumice, perlite, coarse sand, or gravel (at least 50%).
Watering: Follow the "soak and dry" method. Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry to the touch, and then allow it to dry out completely before watering again. Reduce watering significantly in cooler months to prevent rot. Overwatering is the most common cause of problems.
Temperature: Tolerates a wide range of warm temperatures. It's relatively cold-hardy for a cactus, able to withstand brief dips to around 20-25°F (-7 to -4°C) if kept dry. However, prolonged freezing temperatures are damaging.
Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer during the active growing season (spring and summer), typically once a month.
Propagation: Can be propagated from both seeds (which will yield genetically variable but regionally characteristic plants) and cuttings (to maintain the exact genetics of a particularly desirable individual).
Significance in the Cactus Community:

High Demand: 'Matucana' Trichocereus peruvianus is highly sought after by collectors for its stunning blue color, impressive spination, and its clear provenance from a historically significant region.
Source of Famous Clones: It's believed that some famous individual Trichocereus peruvianus clones, such as 'Sharxx Blue', originated from seed batches or specific selections from the Matucana region, further solidifying its reputation for producing exceptional plants.
Breeding Stock: Its robust genetics and desirable aesthetic traits make it an excellent choice for use in Trichocereus hybridization programs.
In summary, 'Matucana' Trichocereus peruvianus represents a distinguished and visually captivating form of the Peruvian Torch Cactus, celebrated for its vibrant blue coloration, prominent spines, and its direct connection to the historically rich cactus-growing region of Matucana, Peru.