Wowie x SS02 (Rooted Plants)

"Wowie" Trichocereus Bridgesii is a specific cultivar of this cactus species, known for its desirable traits that distinguish it from other clones. General Characteristics of Trichocereus Bridgesii: Appearance: * Columnar cactus with blue-green stems.
Can grow quite tall, reaching several meters in height. Typically has long spines. "Wowie" Specifics (may vary slightly between individual plants): Growth Habit: May exhibit unique growth patterns, such as faster growth or a more robust branching structure compared to other Bridgesii clones. Spine Characteristics: Could have distinctive spine colors, lengths, or arrangements. Overall Vigor: May be known for its overall health and vigor, with strong growth and resistance to diseases. Important Note: The specific characteristics of the "Wowie" clone can vary slightly between individual plants, as with any cultivar.

"SS02" is a highly regarded and much-sought-after cultivar of Trichocereus Bridgesii, also known as the Bolivian Torch cactus (syn. Echinopsis lageniformis).

Here's a breakdown of what's known about "SS02":

Origin and History:

Sacred Succulents: "SS02" was brought into cultivation by Ben Kamm and his nursery, Sacred Succulents, which is why it bears the "SS" designation.
Ed and Betty Gay's Collection: The original plant came from the now-defunct Serra Gardens in Malibu, which had inherited the collection of Ed and Betty Gay. The Gays were known for collecting plants throughout Central and South America from the 1930s to the 1950s, suggesting "SS02" likely originated from their expeditions.
Likely Bolivian Origin: Its appearance is similar to ecotypes observed around the La Paz basin in Bolivia, which is a native region for Trichocereus Bridgesii.
Characteristics:

Columnar Growth: Like other Trichocereus Bridgesii, "SS02" is a columnar cactus that can reach impressive heights, potentially up to 6 meters (about 20 feet) tall.
Stems: It forms blue-green stems up to 20 centimeters (about 8 inches) in diameter, which branch from the plant's base.
Ribs: Sacred Succulents' description mentions 5-7 ribs.
Spines: "SS02" is generally described as a relatively short-spined variety, with areoles bearing 2-4 central spines up to 1.5 inches long. However, some mature specimens can develop more prominent, double spination. New growth on older stems can sometimes be spineless.
Flowers: It produces white, nocturnal (night-blooming) flowers.
Cold Hardiness: It is considered cold-hardy to about 25° Fahrenheit (-3.9° Celsius).
Growth Rate: In ideal conditions, it can grow roughly 30 centimeters (about 1 foot) per year.
Significance and Use in Cultivation:

Hybrid Parent: "SS02" is highly valued in the cactus community for its genetic qualities and is frequently used in hybridization. It's known to produce a wide variety of "mind-boggling" and unique offspring when crossed with other Trichocereus species and cultivars. Many popular hybrids in circulation have "SS02" as a parent.
Distinctive Form: It's considered a distinct form of Trichocereus Bridgesii.
Easy to Grow: "SS02" is generally easy to grow both indoors and outdoors in USDA Zones 8-10. It thrives in fertile, free-draining soil and with regular watering during the growing season.
In summary, "SS02" is a historically significant and highly desirable clone of Trichocereus Bridgesii, recognized for its distinct characteristics and its prolific use in creating diverse and appealing cactus hybrids