Star Ayabaca

Trichocereus CV 'Star Ayabaca':

Originated from a collector named "Star Mackie,"

'Star Ayabaca' is a cultivar (CV), which means it's a plant that has been selected and propagated for desirable characteristics, likely originating from a specific plant or lineage. Cultivars are often given "fancy" names to distinguish them from the general species.

It is highly likely to be a cultivar of Trichocereus Pachanoi (or a closely related Trichocereus/Echinopsis species) given its naming convention and the commonality of Pachanoi from Peru. Some seed suppliers list "Trichocereus Pachanoi KK 2150 Ayabaca, Peru, 2000m" which suggests a direct link to a collection from that region.

Observed Characteristics (from anecdotal sources): While no definitive botanical description of 'Star Ayabaca' was found, online discussions (like those on Reddit) suggest it's a robust and desirable clone. One user mentioned receiving a cutting from Ayacucho, Peru, whose family had cultivated the mother plant for generations for medicinal purposes, and that the mother plant was "huge!" This suggests it's a strong grower and potentially a significant plant in its native region.

Who is 'Ayabaca' named after?

The name 'Ayabaca' in 'Star Ayabaca' refers to Ayabaca Province in Peru.

Location: Ayabaca is a province located in the Piura Region of Peru. Its capital city, also called Ayabaca (or Ayavaca), is situated at an altitude of 2,715 meters (8,907 ft).

Etymology: The name "Ayabaca" (or "Ayavaca") is derived from two Quechua roots:

aya: This root is related to death, but also to immortality, soul, consciousness, and vital processes. It can also refer to pale red or yellowish colors of twilight and dawn.

huaca: This refers to sacred places or objects (sanctuaries).

Combining these, some interpretations suggest "Ayabaca" means "grave and ancient tomb of the dead," originating from a site with ancient bones near where the Spanish founded a mission village in 1571. However, a broader interpretation links it to the "Sanctuary of Death, but also of Immortality, of life's changes and creative transformation," particularly given an old sanctuary in the area where regional rivers originate.

Cultural Significance of the Region: The city of Ayabaca is a significant religious center, particularly known for its devotion to the "Señor Cautivo" (Captive Lord), with a major festival on October 13th attracting many pilgrims.

Therefore, 'Star Ayabaca' likely indicates that this specific cactus cultivar originated from, or is associated with, the Ayabaca region of Peru, which is known for its indigenous populations and the historical use of Trichocereus cacti.