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This plant, known botanically as Trichocereus pachanoi, is native to the Andes of Peru and Equador. Unlike the small peyote cactus, San Pedro is a very hardy specie and will endure a wide range of weather conditions. It grows to a height of 5m and will branch at the base forming a small tree. It has up to four small yellow to brown spins on each areole.
San Pedro is a very common landscaping cactus since it is so widespread. It is also one of the fastest growing of all columnar cacti. It grows fastest in a very sunny climate with long summers (or under high intensity growth lights year round) but will grow fairly well in more temperate areas as well. It grows in its native habitat at altitudes from sea level to 9000 feet high in the Andes where it is most frequently found on western slopes. The soil in this region is very rich in humus and various minerals. This helps in the production of mescaline and other alkaloids.
There is evidence that the ritualistic use of San Pedro dates back to 1000 BC. Even today it is used by Curanderos (medicine men) of northern Peru. They prepare a drink called CIMORA from it and take this in a ceremonial setting to diagnose the spiritual or subconscious basis of a patient's illness.
Click here for information on Growing San Pedro. |
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