San Pedro Cactus

echinopsis pachanoi

Also known as: ["Trichocereus pachanoi","Huachuma","Wachuma"]

Family: Cactaceae Genus: Echinopsis Category: Succulents & Cacti

Overview

A columnar cactus native to the Andes, known for its fast growth and psychoactive properties.

Benefits & Perks

["fast growing","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Cactaceae
Genus: Echinopsis
Botanical Name: Echinopsis pachanoi

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Succulents & Cacti
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor garden in frost-free areas
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining cactus mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (4–6 hours daily); adjust to avoid scorching in intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak midday hours; for indoor plants, place near south-facing windows with filtered light.

Warning Signs: Wilting despite moist soil (root rot); yellowing or browning of stems (sunburn or overwatering).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to diffuse harsh sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining cactus mix with added perlite or sand

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; use terra cotta pots for better aeration; avoid overwatering in dense soils.

Temperature

Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions; reduce watering in cooler months.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth during active growing season.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop in fall/winter; use a low-nitrogen formula for cacti.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings; occasionally offsets or seeds.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Cut a healthy stem.
  2. Let it callus for a few days.
  3. Plant in dry medium.
  4. Water lightly after roots form.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–80°F), humid (50–60%), bright indirect light with good air circulation.

Medium

Cactus mix or perlite/sand mix for good drainage.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 1–3 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), pot, cactus mix, misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use a sterile cutting tool; avoid overwatering until roots form; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems cleanly just above a node or joint; allow cuts to callus before handling.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged stems to encourage new growth and maintain shape.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or a sharp knife.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; cut at the right angle; let wounds callus; dispose of trimmings properly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter.

Method

Remove plant carefully; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh cactus mix with good drainage; water lightly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water sparingly post-repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain completely; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the soil, avoiding the stem.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase during hot, dry periods.

Soil Improvement

Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis (yellowing) in cold; wilting or sunburn (brown/black patches) in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet; can lead to tissue damage below 32°F (0°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below freezing.

Hot Stress

Can cause dehydration, wilting, or sunburn; may lead to stunted growth if not watered adequately.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools afterward.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Echinopsis pachanoi are not commonly reported, as this species typically has green stems without true leaves.

Wilting in Echinopsis pachanoi can occur due to water stress, either from overwatering leading to root rot or underwatering causing dehydration.

Leaf spots are not commonly reported on Echinopsis pachanoi, as it lacks true leaves; however, similar lesions may appear on its stems due to fungal or bacterial infections.

Rotting, particularly root and stem rot, can affect Echinopsis pachanoi, often caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to soft, discolored tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Echinopsis pachanoi is slightly toxic to cats if ingested. Similar to dogs, the fibrous nature of the plant can cause gastrointestinal upset, and the psychoactive compounds may induce neurological symptoms in cats, which are particularly sensitive to such substances.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors disorientation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Echinopsis pachanoi can be slightly toxic to dogs if ingested. The plant's fibrous structure may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, and the psychoactive compounds, particularly mescaline, can lead to neurological disturbances in dogs, which are more sensitive to such substances than humans.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors confusion
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Non-toxic

Echinopsis pachanoi, commonly known as San Pedro cactus, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its fibrous nature. The plant contains psychoactive compounds, mescaline, which can induce hallucinations and altered states of consciousness, but these effects are not considered toxicologically harmful in controlled doses.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea hallucinations dizziness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten in large quantities

Avoid ingestion unless under the supervision of a qualified professional. Do not consume for recreational purposes without proper knowledge of dosage and effects.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Echinopsis pachanoi safe for pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.

Q: How often should I water this cactus?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.

Q: Does this cactus flower?

A: Yes, it produces large, fragrant white flowers, typically at night.

Quick Reference
Family: Cactaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days in summer, e
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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