Guru and Cuzcoensis (2 in 1) (Rooted Plants)

The "Guru" clone was reportedly released by a well-known New Zealand grower named Ross Gurau.

While Trichocereus Pachanoi is native to the Andes Mountains of Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and northern Argentina, "Guru" is a cultivated variety (CV) meaning it's a specific clone selected and propagated for certain characteristics.

It's part of a broader group of San Pedro cacti often confused with each other due to their variable appearance.

General Characteristics of Trichocereus Pachanoi (and by extension, 'Guru'):

Growth Habit: It's a large, multi-stemmed, fast-growing columnar cactus that can form a small tree, reaching 3 to 6 meters (10-20 feet) tall and 1.8 meters (6 feet) wide, with branches usually extending from the base. Some specimens have been recorded at 12.2 meters (40 feet) tall.

Stems: Upright, columnar, and flexible. They are typically pale green to blue-green, slightly glaucous (waxy, powdery coating) when young, and darker green with age. They can be 6-15 cm (2.4-5.9 inches) in diameter.

Ribs: Usually 4-8 (most commonly 5-7), broad at the base, obtuse, and rounded, with a deep horizontal depression above the areole (the small, round bumps where spines and flowers grow).

Areoles: Whitish and close-set.

Spines: Highly variable, often wanting (spineless) in cultivated varieties, but can have 3-7 unequal yellow to brown spines, up to 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 inches) long. The spines are spaced evenly along the ribs, approximately 2 cm (0.8 inches) apart.

Flowers: Very large, white, fragrant, and night-blooming, often remaining open for the following day. They can be up to 22 cm (8.7 inches) in diameter and are quite showy. The flower tube and fruits are covered with scales and black curled hairs.

Fruit: Oblong, dark-green, about 3 cm (1.2 inches) across and 5-6 cm (2.0-2.4 inches) long, eventually bursting open to reveal white flesh filled with small seeds.

Specific to 'Guru':

While the general characteristics of Trichocereus Pachanoi apply, 'Guru' is known to "go full on freak over time," suggesting it might develop interesting or unusual growth patterns as it matures. This could refer to unique rib configurations, branching habits, or even monstrose/crested tendencies in some individuals, though further specifics on its unique "freak" appearance are not widely detailed.

Seeds from "Ross Gurau's" operations, including those of 'Guru' (often open-pollinated, or OP), are known for their high germination rates and vigorous growth. This suggests that 'Guru' itself is a robust and healthy clone.

Cultivation:

Sunlight: Prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade, especially in hot climates, to prevent sunburn. Indoors, it needs bright light and some direct sun.

Temperature: Cold hardy down to -9°C (20°F) for short periods. It can withstand colder temperatures than many other cacti due to its high-altitude native habitat. In cooler climates, it's best to grow it in a pot so it can be brought indoors during winter.

Soil: Requires fertile, well-draining soil. A good cactus or succulent mix is suitable, or you can create your own by combining potting soil with perlite, sand, or small gravel. Ensure pots have drainage holes to prevent root rot.

Watering: Water well during the growing season (spring and summer), allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During winter dormancy, reduce watering significantly. Overwatering, especially in cold periods, can lead to fungal diseases and rot.

Fertilizing: Fertilize monthly with a low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer or a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Repotting: Repot young plants every 2-3 years, and mature plants every 4-5 years or when they outgrow their pots.

Propagation: Easily propagated from cuttings or seeds. Cuttings should be allowed to callous for a few days before planting. Seeds germinate well with high humidity, free-draining soil, and adequate light and nutrition.

Pests and Diseases: Susceptible to pests like mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases like black rot, especially in warm weather. Good air circulation can help prevent indoor pest issues.

Traditional Use (of Trichocereus Pachanoi in general):

The San Pedro cactus has a long history of traditional use in indigenous cultures of the Andes for medicinal and ceremonial purposes due to its mescaline content. It's important to note that the legality of growing and possessing Trichocereus pachanoi can vary depending on local laws, particularly concerning its alkaloid content. However, it is widely grown as an ornamental cactus.

In summary, 'Guru' is a sought-after Trichocereus Pachanoi cultivar originating from New Zealand, recognized for its robust growth and the potential for unique mature forms, while sharing the general care requirements and appearance variations common to the San Pedro species.

Cuzcoensis (often synonymous with Echinopsis Cuzcoensis) is a columnar cactus species native to the Cusco region of Peru, where it grows at high altitudes (3100 to 3600 meters). It's a striking plant that can reach impressive heights of 5-6 meters in its natural habitat, though cultivated specimens in pots typically stay smaller (2-3 meters).
Here's what is known about Trichocereus Cuzcoensis and its hybrids:
General Characteristics of Trichocereus Cuzcoensis:
Appearance: It's a bright to dull green columnar cactus with 7-9 low, rounded ribs. New growth is often bright green.

Spines: A distinguishing feature is its impressive and often variable spines, usually numbering 8-12 per areole. These spines are very strong, stiff, and typically have a rounded, knobby base. They can range from 5-10 cm long. New spines are yellow or dark brown, fading to dark gray or white with age. Some sources note that the thick base of the spines is a key identifier.

Areoles: The areoles are spaced approximately 1-2 cm apart.

Flowers: It produces large, fragrant, white to whitish, funnel-shaped flowers that are nocturnal, meaning they open at night and often stay fresh until the morning. They can be up to 16 cm in diameter.

Fruit: After flowering, it produces globular greenish fruit.

Nomenclature: Historically, it has been known by several synonyms, including Echinopsis Cuzcoensis, Echinopsis peruviana var. Cuzcoensis, and Trichocereus Peruvianus var. Cuzcoensis. It's considered part of a continuum with Trichocereus Peruvianus and Trichocereus Macrogonus.