TRICOCEREUS PERIVINAUS (peruvian torch)
T. Peruvianus is a columnar cactus native to the western slope of the Andes in Peru, between about 2,000–3,000 m (6,600–9,800 ft.) above sea level. It contains the psychoactive alkaloid mescaline as well as other alkaloids.
The Peruvian Torch is similar to the San Pedro cactus (Echinopsis pachanoi) which is found in the same region. The human use of the cactus dates back thousands of years to the northern coast of Peru and the monks of a pre-Inca culture known as Chavín (900 BC to 200 BC).
Cultivation
Trichocereus (Echinopsis) grow relatively fast compared to other cacti. Give Trichocereus plants a well-drained soil mixture with some leaf mould or other organic compost added. Trichocereus species do not like an atmosphere with high humidity. Keep your Trichocereus cactus warm in summer and water frequently, letting the compost dry between watering’s. In winter your Peruvian Torch should be kept dry and temperatures should not fall under 5 °C.
Feed with a cactus fertilizer as per manufacturer’s Instructions when plant is actively growing.
September to October reduce watering and keep dry from November to March/April when the plant will have a dormant period, signs of new growth in the spring is time to start watering, sparingly at first. If the plant begins to wilt during the winter period, give only very little water., THIS APPLIES TO VERY YOUNG PLANTS
On receipt of your plant place in a light, but shaded location and gradually acclimatise the plant to more direct light. Do not place in direct sun until plant has acclimatised, and avoid intense mid-day sun while the plant is young.
Peruvian Torch is an easy cactus to grow, being able to take lower temperatures (as long as kept dry) and more water when growing than most cacti.
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