Bald Bridgesii (Huntington Library) - (Cuttings)

'Huntington Library Bald Bridgesii' refers to a specific cultivar of the cactus species Trichocereus Bridgesii (also known as Echinopsis lageniformis). The name indicates its origin or significant presence at the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino, California, and its characteristic "bald" or spineless appearance, particularly on older growth.

Here's a breakdown of what is known about it

Parent Species: Trichocereus Bridgesii

Appearance: Trichocereus Bridgesii is a fast-growing columnar cactus that can reach heights of 2-6 meters. It typically has 4 to 8 ribs (often 5-7) and distinctive long, drooping spines (4-10 cm) that are honey-colored to brown. Younger plants or new growth tend to have more pronounced spines. The stems are usually light glaucous green when young, becoming darker green with age.

Habitat: Native to the high-altitude, high-rainfall areas of the Andes in Bolivia. It's known for being relatively cold-hardy compared to many other cacti, tolerating temperatures as low as -12°C if kept dry.

Cultivation: It's considered easy to grow, preferring fertile, well-drained soil. It benefits from thorough watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. During the growing season (summer), it can be fertilized monthly. While it can handle full sun, in very hot summers, some light shade can prevent sunburn. During winter dormancy, it should be kept cool and dry to prevent etiolation and fungal issues.

Varieties: Trichocereus Bridgesii is known for producing several prized mutant varieties, including cristate (crested) and monstrous forms. The "penis plant" (Clone B) is a famous monstrous variant, characterized by short, smooth, spineless upper segments resembling a phallus.

'Huntington Library Bald Bridgesii' Specifics:

"Bald" Characteristic: The "bald" in its name signifies that this cultivar tends to lose its spines as it matures and grows larger. While some Trichocereus Bridgesii naturally show a reduction in spines with age, this cultivar is specifically noted for this trait.

Huntington Library Connection: The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens has a significant and historic collection of cacti and succulents, including various Trichocereus species and cultivars. It's a renowned institution for botanical research and conservation. The 'Huntington Library Bald Bridgesii' likely originates from or is a prominent specimen within their collection, indicating its historical significance and presence there. The Huntington has a long history of plant introductions through their International Succulent Introductions (ISI) program, though it's not explicitly stated if this specific cultivar was formally introduced through that program.

Growth: Like its parent species, it's expected to be a relatively fast grower under optimal conditions.

Similarities to other "Bald Bridge" Types: There are various "bald bridge" types in cultivation, and it's recognized that many might be very similar or even the same clone with different names. The 'Huntington Library Bald Bridgesii' is sometimes compared to 'Hoff bridge' or 'AFF bridge'.

Cultivation Notes for 'Huntington Library Bald Bridgesii' (based on general T. Bridgesii care):

Soil: Needs a fertile, well-drained cactus mix.

Watering: Water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. It can tolerate slightly more water than some other cacti, especially in warm weather.

Sunlight: Prefers full sun but may benefit from light shade during intense summer heat to prevent sunburn.

Dormancy: Keep dry and cool during winter dormancy.

Propagation: Can be easily propagated from cuttings.

In essence, 'Huntington Library Bald Bridgesii' is a spineless or nearly spineless form of Trichocereus Bridgesii, notable for its connection to the prestigious Huntington Botanical Gardens. Its care requirements are similar to other Trichocereus Bridgesii varieties, making it a relatively easy-to-grow and visually distinctive columnar cactus.