Scop x Althea (Yearlings)

SCOP - "Scopulicola"

Growth Form: A columnar cactus that can grow quite large, typically reaching 2-4 meters (6.5-13 feet) tall, though some can reach up to 5 meters. Stems are usually 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) in diameter. It typically grows as a single column and branches from the base, though it's relatively rare for it to produce numerous side shoots compared to some pachanoi varieties.

Stems: Characterized by a nice, dark green epidermis, sometimes with a bluish hue.
Ribs: Distinctive for usually having 4-6 ribs, with five being the most common. The ribs are often fairly pronounced.

Spines: This is one of its most defining features. Adult plants are known for their unusually short spines, often only 1.5 mm long, or even being nearly spineless (lack spines entirely). Seedlings might have slightly longer, needle-like spines (2-3 mm). This makes it a popular choice for growers who prefer less thorny cacti.

Areoles: Areoles are small, sunken, and have very little white fluff/wool.

Flowers: Produces large, white, funnel-shaped flowers that are typically 15-22 cm (6-9 inches) long. These flowers are nocturnal (open at night) but often stay open until late morning, especially on cooler days.

Fruits: Green, up to 6 cm thick.

Hardiness: T. scopulicola is quite tough and resilient, similar to T. bridgesii. It is drought-resistant and can tolerate strong summer rainfalls. It's also relatively cold-hardy, potentially withstanding short night frosts down to -5°C (23°F), but it's crucial to keep them completely dry over winter if temperatures drop low to prevent rot. They prefer purely mineral soil mixes that dry quickly.

"Althea" is a recognized cultivar (CV) of Trichocereus peruvianus cactus. Here's what is known about it:

Origin: Trichocereus peruvianus 'Althea' was originally isolated, cloned, and distributed by a US-based grower named GeeBee who names her clones after Grateful Dead songs. Its lineage traces back to the Matucana mountain region in Peru.

Characteristics:
It is described as a slow grower, possibly a bit slower than the 'Sharxx Blue' cultivar.
It favors girth, suggesting it produces thick stems.
It is noted for being extremely glaucous (having a waxy, bluish-white coating) and having short spines."