Bob x Landfill (Yearlings)

Bob x Landfill

'Bob' refers to a specific cultivar (CV) of Trichocereus cactus. While information on specific cultivars can sometimes be limited or informally shared within the cactus community, here's what I've gathered about 'Bob' and related Trichocereus characteristics:

What we know about 'Bob':

'Bob's Monstrose Creation' (BMC): This appears to be the full, formal name for the cultivar, often shortened to 'Bob' or BMC.

Monstrose Form: The name "Monstrose Creation" strongly suggests that 'Bob' is a Monstrose variety. Monstrose cacti exhibit unusual, often distorted or irregular growth patterns, deviating from the typical columnar form. This is a highly sought-after trait among collectors.

Characteristics (based on anecdotal descriptions): One vendor describes it as "similar to TPMs (Trichocereus Pachanoi Monstrose), but a little different, with longer spines and it's chunkier!" This implies it's a robust, perhaps thicker, Monstrose form of a Trichocereus related to T. Pachanoi, with more prominent spines than some other Monstrose varieties.

Origin: The same vendor mentions acquiring this specimen from "Mr. MISPLANT himself," indicating a connection to the well-known Trichocereus seed and plant vendor, Misplant.net. This suggests it's likely a unique selection or hybrid developed or propagated by someone associated with that source.

Collector's Item: Due to its unique appearance and specific origin, it's considered a desirable plant for collectors.

General Trichocereus Information (relevant to 'Bob's care and characteristics):

Growth Habit: Many Trichocereus species, including T. Pachanoi (San Pedro cactus) and T. Bridgesii (Bolivian Torch), are fast-growing columnar cacti. They can reach significant heights (several meters) and often branch from the base.

Appearance: Stems are typically light to dark green, sometimes glaucous (bluish-grey). Ribs can vary in number. Spines can range from very short to quite long and robust, depending on the species and cultivar. Monstrose forms will deviate significantly from these typical appearances.

Flowers: Most Trichocereus species produce large, fragrant, white flowers that open at night and last for about two days.

Hardiness: Trichocereus species are relatively hardy for cacti, able to withstand cooler temperatures than many other cacti, especially if kept dry. They generally thrive in USDA hardiness zones 8b to 10.

Soil: They require fertile, free-draining soil. A good mix includes inorganic lightweight substrates like pumice or perlite to improve drainage.

Watering: During the growing season (spring and summer), water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases, though Trichocereus are less sensitive than some other cacti.

Light: They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Indoors, a south or west-facing window is ideal. They can be susceptible to sunburn if exposed to too much intense sun too quickly.

Propagation: Trichocereus are easily propagated from cuttings. Cuttings should be allowed to callus (dry and form a scab) for several days to weeks before planting to prevent rot. They can also be grown from seed, and grafting is a common method to accelerate growth, especially for unique or slower-growing cultivars.

Important Note on Cultivars:

The world of Trichocereus cultivars, especially hybrids and Monstrose forms, can be complex. Many are shared and named informally within the enthusiast community. The exact characteristics can sometimes vary slightly depending on growing conditions and even individual plant expression. When looking for a specific cultivar like 'Bob', it's often best to seek out reputable growers or communities that specialize in these unique cacti.

 'Landfill' is a popular and well-regarded cultivar of Trichocereus Pachanoi, commonly known as San Pedro cactus. Here's a breakdown of what's known about it:

Origin and Name:

It's a hardy clone of Trichocereus Pachanoi.

Its name, 'Landfill', comes from its origin in Southern California, near a landfill. This unique origin story is often mentioned when discussing the clone.

Characteristics:

Appearance: 'Landfill' is known for being a nice, short-spined Pachanoi. It can develop a beautiful blue-green hue. It's described as "fat, chunky and glaucous" (having a waxy, bluish-white coating).

Growth Habit: Like other Trichocereus Pachanoi, it's a fast-growing columnar cactus that can reach significant heights. It tends to form multiple branches from its base, creating a towering, tree-like structure.

Spines: It has short spines, typically ranging from 0.5 to 2 cm long.

Ribs: Trichocereus Pachanoi generally has 4-8 ribs (usually 5-7), broad at the base, obtuse, and rounded.

Flowers: While less commonly the focus for 'Landfill' specifically, Trichocereus Pachanoi produces very large, white, fragrant flowers that bloom at night and remain open into the following day.

Cultivation and Care:

Hardiness: 'Landfill' is considered a hardy cactus. Trichocereus Pachanoi in general is quite resilient and can withstand lower temperatures than many other cacti, even tolerating brief periods down to 0°C to -5°C if kept dry.

Light: It thrives in full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering. If grown indoors, a south-facing window or grow lights are recommended.

Soil: Requires well-draining soil, ideally a sandy or rocky mix. A blend of potting soil with added perlite or grit is suitable for potted plants. Poor drainage can lead to root rot.

Watering: During the growing season (spring to late summer/early fall), moderate, regular watering is beneficial. Allow the top inch of soil to dry before re-watering. In winter, during its dormancy period, very little to no watering is required to prevent root rot.

Fertilization: Fertilize gently during the growing season (April to October), using low nitrogen at the start and end, and a balanced NPK feed (e.g., 20-20-20) during peak summer.

Propagation: Like other San Pedro cacti, it's easily propagated from cuttings. Cuttings should be allowed to callous before planting in well-draining soil.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for common pests like mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Root rot is a risk with overwatering or poor drainage.

Notable Features and Reputation:

'Landfill' is highly regarded among collectors and growers of Trichocereus Pachanoi.

It's often mentioned alongside other well-known and sought-after Trichocereus Pachanoi clones like Ogun/Ogunbodede, KR04, Hutchison 1597, and Nuestra Bonita, suggesting its reputation for desirable characteristics or vigor.

In summary, 'Landfill' is a robust and attractive Trichocereus Pachanoi clone, valued for its distinctive blue-green color and short spines, originating from an interesting location in Southern California. It's a relatively easy cactus to cultivate given proper drainage, sunlight, and watering practices.