Chalaensis (Cuttings)

'Chalaensis' refers to a cultivar of the Trichocereus Chalaensis species (which is also often classified under the genus Echinopsis). Here's a comprehensive overview:

Botanical Background:

Classification: Trichocereus Chalaensis belongs to the Cactaceae family, specifically the Trichocereus genus (though it's frequently reclassified as Echinopsis Chalaensis).

Origin: It is endemic to the Andes Mountains in Peru and Bolivia, typically found at high elevations (2,500 to 4,000 meters above sea level). Interestingly, some sources note it can also grow at much lower altitudes, around 200 meters, which is uncommon for many Trichocereus species.

Discovery: It was collected by notable field botanists such as Friedrich Ritter (FR1052) and Rauh (Rauh K128), and its type locality is Chala in southern Peru.

Characteristics of Trichocereus Chalaensis:

Growth Habit: It's a columnar cactus that can grow quite tall, reaching up to 3-5 meters (10-16 feet) in height and 10-18 cm (4-7 inches) in diameter. It often grows as a shrub, with multiple erect, branching stems forming a dense clump. It can also be found growing prostrate or creeping down rocky slopes.

Stems: Typically blue-green in color with prominent vertical ribs (7-9 ribs are common), spaced about 2-3 cm apart. It's often described as having "notchy" or "bumpy tubercle growth."

Spines: The branches are covered with clusters of spines that can range in color from golden yellow to brown or black, and sometimes even red. There are usually 1-3 central spines (3-6 cm long) and 5-11 radial spines (1-2 cm long), with maximum lengths reaching 5-7 cm. The strong furrows directly above the areoles are a distinctive feature.

Flowers: It produces large, white, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom at night and typically last only one day. They are around 14-20 cm long and 12 cm wide, with prominent stamens and stigma, making them attractive to nocturnal pollinators like moths and bats. The flowers are generally well-scented. Trichocereus Chalaensis is self-sterile, meaning it requires pollen from another plant to produce seeds.

Adaptation: It's well-adapted to arid environments, capable of storing water in its stem and tolerating periods of drought.

The "CV. 'Chalaensis'" Aspect:

When a cactus has "CV." (Cultivar) in its name, like 'Chalaensis', it typically refers to a specific cultivated variety selected for particular traits. While the general characteristics mentioned above apply to the species Trichocereus Chalaensis, a cultivar might have been chosen for:

Distinctive Spination: Perhaps a more intense red or golden spine color, or a particular arrangement.

Growth Form: A more compact or a particularly attractive branching habit.

Ribbing: Enhanced "notchiness" or a unique rib structure.

Flower Variations: Though T. Chalaensis is known for white flowers, a cultivar might be selected for subtle variations in size or form, or perhaps a more prolific blooming habit. (Note: Some Echinopsis hybrids have diverse flower colors, but T. Chalaensis species flowers are white.)

It's important to distinguish between the natural species Trichocereus Chalaensis and a specific named cultivar. Information on specific named cultivars of T. Chalaensis can be more limited, as they are often propagated by cuttings and traded among enthusiasts rather than being widely documented in botanical literature. However, photos shared by growers indicate certain phenotypes within the species are highly valued for their aesthetics, particularly the "bumpy tubercle growth with hot red spines" as mentioned by some vendors.

Cultivation:

Light: As a desert cactus, it thrives in bright light and can handle full sun, though protection from extreme heat during the hottest summer days might be beneficial, especially for younger plants or those in intense climates.

Soil: Requires a well-draining, mineral-rich substrate with very little organic matter. Good aeration is crucial to prevent root rot.

Watering: Water sparingly from spring to autumn, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering's. Keep perfectly dry during winter dormancy, especially if temperatures are cool.

Temperature: Adapted to arid conditions with fluctuating temperatures. While it can tolerate some short night frosts, it generally prefers a minimum average temperature of 10°C (50°F).

Propagation: Can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or grafting. Vegetative methods like cuttings are essential for maintaining the specific traits of a cultivar.

Rarity: Trichocereus Chalaensis (and its cultivars) is considered relatively rare in cultivation compared to more common Trichocereus species like Pachanoi or Bridgesii. However, seeds and cuttings are available from specialized cactus nurseries and collectors.

In summary, Trichocereus CV. 'Chalaensis' represents a cultivated form of a fascinating and beautiful columnar cactus from the Andes, prized for its distinctive ribbing, attractive spines, and large, nocturnal white flowers.