Althea x Ferah

'Althea' is a specific cultivar of Trichocereus Peruvianus (often synonymous with Echinopsis peruviana), a columnar cactus native to the Matucana mountain region of Peru. It's a relatively new and rare cultivar, gaining popularity among cactus enthusiasts.

Here's a breakdown of what's known about 'Althea':

Origin and Characteristics:

Cultivar, not a variety: 'Althea' is a cultivar (CV), meaning it's a specific plant selected for unique traits and propagated clonally (e.g., through cuttings or grafting). It's not a naturally occurring botanical variety.

Parentage: It originates from Trichocereus Peruvianus seeds, specifically from a US-based grower named "GeeBee" who isolated, cloned, and distributed it to the community. It's also linked to "Icaros DNA" seeds from the Wild Andes.

Appearance:

Glaucous: 'Althea' is known for being extremely glaucous, meaning it has a bluish-white or grayish-white waxy coating on its stem.

Short Spines: It typically has short spines.

Girth: It tends to favor girth, meaning it produces thick, robust columns.

Growth Rate: It's considered a slow grower, possibly even slower than other Trichocereus cultivars like 'Sharxx Blue'.

Flowers: Like most Trichocereus species, 'Althea' produces large, white, night-blooming flowers with black or brown hairs along the tube leading to the flower.

General Trichocereus Characteristics (likely applicable to 'Althea'):

Columnar Growth: They are generally tall, green columnar cacti with vertical ribs.

Branching: They have a strong tendency to branch and form candelabra-like structures as they mature.

Native Habitat: Native to the Andes Mountains (Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, northern Chile), thriving at altitudes of 2,000 to 3,000 meters above sea level. This habitat makes them relatively resilient to diverse weather conditions, including fluctuating temperatures.

Traditional Uses: Historically used in traditional medicine and veterinary medicine.

Ornamental: Widely grown as an ornamental cactus due to their striking appearance.

Care and Cultivation (general Trichocereus care, applicable to 'Althea'):

Sunlight: Thrives in ample sunlight. Full sun is preferred, but they can tolerate partial shade. If grown indoors, a south or west-facing window is ideal. Protect from extreme midday scorching sun, especially in hot climates.

Soil: Requires well-draining soil. A cactus potting mix or a blend of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite (or pumice, akadama, crushed lava rock) works well. The key is to ensure quick drainage to prevent root rot.

Watering:

Growing Season (Spring to early Autumn): Water regularly, allowing the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Less frequent watering is better than overwatering.

Dormancy (Winter): Reduce watering significantly, or stop altogether, especially in cooler temperatures. They do not like to be wet for long periods during dormancy.

Fertilization: Organic matter and mulch can provide sufficient nutrients, so frequent fertilizing isn't always necessary. If there are signs of nutrient deficiency (stunted growth, yellowish leaves), apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20 NPK) during the peak of summer. Some growers use a low-nitrogen fertilizer at the start and end of the season.

Temperature: Can withstand relatively low temperatures (down to 0°C to -5°C) if kept dry during winter dormancy. Some reports suggest they can even tolerate -10°C.

Airflow: Good airflow is important, especially when grown indoors or in humid environments, to prevent fungal issues.

Potting: Wide and shallow containers with good drainage are recommended to allow for root growth. Consider uprooting annually to check if the plant needs more space.

Propagation: Can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Cuttings are a popular method for 'Althea' to ensure clone fidelity.

All information provided here is for horticultural and ornamental interest.

'Ferah' is a pure Scopulicola clone sourced from the two Australian cactus collectors Ferah; Gulen, from which the clone gets its name. The clone has been spread through the US primarily by The Cactus Jones and is highly sought after by collectors looking to make hybrids. A very sought after clone of scopulicola that is rare. This is a Pricocereus hybrid that OCC is growing.

"cv. Ferah Scopulicola" refers to a specific cultivated variety of the Trichocereus Scopulicola cactus. It's widely regarded as an exceptional Trichocereus Scopulicola clone, with some even calling it the "greatest Scopulicola on Earth".

Here's a breakdown of what makes it stand out:

Distinctive Appearance: Trichocereus Scopulicola generally grows as a columnar cactus with few to no spines. However, "Ferah" is specifically mentioned as being a gorgeous, near-spineless clone. One Reddit user noted that their specimen, sourced from "Ferah herself," was more spiny and less notchy than expected, suggesting some variation within the cultivar or among individuals.

Highly Sought After: "Ferah" is a popular and frequently requested clone, indicating its desirability among cactus enthusiasts.

Australian Origin: It's noted that "Ferah" Scopulicola comes straight from Australia.

Propagation: The clone is propagated through cuttings. Growers ensure cuttings are well-callused before shipping to prevent fungal rot.

"Kingstock" Designation: Sometimes, "Ferah" is designated as "Kingstock", signifying its premium quality and high regard in the cactus community. (Cactus Jones)

In essence, "cv. Ferah Scopulicola" is a prized, near-spineless cultivar of Trichocereus Scopulicola, recognized for its aesthetic appeal and originating from Australia.