BBG 48.1450 x Ferah

BBG 48.1540 is a highly sought-after and distinctive clone of Trichocereus Peruvianus (Peruvian Torch Cactus).

Here's what makes it notable:
Origin: Berkeley Botanical Garden (BBG)
The "BBG" in its name signifies its origin from the University of California Botanical Garden at Berkeley (often informally referred to as the Berkeley Botanical Garden).
The number "48.1540" is an accession number, a unique identifier assigned by the botanical garden to track specific plants in their collection. This indicates it's a well-documented and historically significant plant.
It was likely acquired by the botanical garden during one of their numerous plant expeditions to South America, particularly the Andes, which occurred from the 1920s to the 1960s.

Key Characteristics:
"Blue Peruvianus": It is primarily known for its striking, deep blue coloration, often described as a "powder deep blue" and considered one of the bluest of all cacti. This glaucous (waxy, powdery) coating is a highly desirable trait.

Gigantic Girth: When mature, it's known to achieve "absolutely gigantic girth," making it a very robust and impressive specimen.

Patterning: It often develops nice patterning on its stem as it grows.
Unique Colored Spines: The spines are described as having "unique colored spines," which can vary and add to its aesthetic appeal.

Popularity and Value:

Highly Sought After: BBG 48.1540 is considered a "highly sought after" clone within the Trichocereus collecting community.

High-End Cultivar: It's often referred to as a "very expensive high-end cultivar," reflecting its rarity and desirability. Cuttings can command high prices in auctions and sales.

"Sharxx American" / "Sharxx Blue" connection: While not directly named "Sharxx," some in the community occasionally refer to it as "Sharxx American" due to its similarities to the highly regarded "Sharxx Blue" clone (which is also a Trichocereus Peruvianus known for its intense blue).

Cultivation:

As a Trichocereus Peruvianus, it would thrive in well-draining soil, plenty of sunlight, and moderate watering during its growing season.

Like most Trichocereus, it's relatively hardy but susceptible to overwatering, especially in cold or humid conditions.

In summary, CV. BBG 48.1540 is a prestigious and highly valued Trichocereus Peruvianus clone, directly sourced from the historical collection of the Berkeley Botanical Garden. Its most prominent features are its incredibly deep blue color, massive girth at maturity, and unique spine characteristics, making it a true gem for serious cactus collectors.

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.