Althea x CCVP 20

'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 "IcarosDNA" 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.

"CCVP" is an abbreviation for Collector's Corner Variegated Peru. This indicates its origin from a collection (likely in Australia, given some discussions online) and its variegated nature, suggesting a connection to Peruvian Trichocereus genetics.

Variegation: The most defining characteristic of 'CCVP' is its variegation. This means it has sections of different colors, often yellow and green, bleeding into each other, giving it a unique and highly sought-after appearance. Some reports also mention it can develop blue hues. This variegation makes it visually distinct from other Trichocereus varieties.

Rarity: 'CCVP' is considered a rare variegated Trichocereus cultivar.

Growth: Like other Trichocereus species, it is a columnar cactus. While specific growth rates for 'CCVP' aren't always detailed, Trichocereus are generally known for being fast-growing cacti, often reaching significant heights. As a cultivar, it may have unique growth patterns.

Care: General Trichocereus care principles would apply:

Sunlight: Prefers ample sunlight, full sun to partial shade, especially in very hot climates to prevent scorching.

Soil: Requires well-draining cactus mix, often a blend of sand, perlite, and other aerating ingredients.

Watering: Water regularly in summer, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Keep rather dry in winter to prevent fungal diseases.

Cold Tolerance: Many Trichocereus species, especially those from high altitudes like the San Pedro cactus (Trichocereus macrogonus var. pachanoi), can tolerate temperatures below freezing if kept dry, but light frost protection is generally recommended for safe cultivation.

Distinction: In discussions among collectors, 'CCVP' is often compared to other variegated Trichocereus cultivars like 'Dr Funk' and "Asian variegated pach," with collectors noting differences in coloration and growth characteristics that become more apparent as the plants mature.

In summary, 'Trichocereus CV 'CCVP'' is a highly prized variegated cultivar originating from a collection, likely with Peruvian Trichocereus genetics, distinguished by its unique yellow, green, and sometimes blue coloration. Its rarity and striking appearance make it a desirable addition for cactus enthusiasts.