San Pedro cactus 50-60 cm: fast-growing columnar cactus from the Andes
San Pedro grows wild on the slopes of the Andes in Ecuador and Peru, roughly between 2,000 and 3,000 metres altitude. The name refers to Saint Peter, who in Christian tradition holds the keys to heaven. Its botanical name is Trichocereus pachanoi, in older literature also Echinopsis pachanoi. It's one of the fastest-growing columnar cacti, which makes it popular with collectors.
Specifications
Species: Trichocereus pachanoi (San Pedro)
Length: approx. 50 to 60 cm
Supplied as: unrooted cutting, without pot
Features: blue-green, usually six to eight ribs, few and short spines
How to root the cutting
A fresh cutting has no roots yet and rots quickly if it stays too wet. First let the cut end dry in a dry, bright spot out of strong sun until a hard layer has formed, usually one to two weeks. Then stand the cutting upright in dry, free-draining cactus soil, for example potting soil mixed with sand or perlite. Don't water for the first few weeks. Roots usually form within a few weeks. After that, only water when the soil is completely dry.
Light, water and winter
San Pedro loves plenty of light. Do let it get used to direct sunlight gradually, otherwise the skin can burn and turn yellow or white. In summer it can stand outside in a sheltered, sunny spot. In winter it needs a rest: cool, bright and almost dry. Bring it indoors before the frost.
Prefer a plant that's already rooted? Choose the San Pedro in a pot. To grow your own from the very start, go for San Pedro seeds. For an unusual growth form there's the San Pedro cristate.
Legal status and safety
San Pedro naturally contains mescaline, a substance on List I of the Dutch Opium Act. The cactus itself may be bought and grown in the Netherlands as an ornamental plant. Dutch-Smart sells it as an ornamental plant, not for consumption. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets. Taking it abroad? Check the local laws first.
Frequently asked questions
Does the cactus come with roots?
No, it's a cutting without a pot. You let it dry and root yourself, as described above.
How fast does a San Pedro grow?
In good conditions, several tens of centimetres a year. The first year is slower, because the cutting is mainly growing roots.
What's the difference with the Peruvian Torch and the Bolivian Torch?
They're closely related. You can recognise the Peruvian Torch and the Bolivian Torch by their longer and more numerous spines. You'll find more species among our mescaline cacti.
