Peyote
lophophora diffusa
Also known as: ["Peyote","False Peyote"]
Overview
A small, spineless cactus native to Mexico, known for its psychoactive alkaloids.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Lophophora |
| Botanical Name: | Lophophora diffusa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor in a rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or filtered sunlight for 4–6 hours daily; avoid intense midday sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; water less in winter; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy soils; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Ideal range 18–30°C (64–86°F); tolerates mild frost but prefers warmth; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; water before applying fertilizer; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets; cuttings root more reliably than offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut a healthy stem/offset.
- Let callus form for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (21–27°C), high humidity (60–70%), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems cleanly with a sharp tool; allow cuts to callus before handling.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged stems to maintain health and shape.
Tools
Sterile pruning shears or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Use clean tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove only necessary parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; handle roots carefully; avoid overwatering post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 10–14 days during active growth (spring/summer); reduce to once a month or less in winter. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial cactus mix; ensure no waterlogging.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, wilting, slow growth, or rot in cold; scorching, sunburn, or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolism, causes root damage, and increases susceptibility to rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 5°C (41°F).
Hot Stress
Causes dehydration, sunburn, and wilting, especially if combined with intense light.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during spring/summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the psychoactive compounds in Lophophora diffusa, which can lead to severe neurological and cardiovascular effects. The plant's toxicity can cause significant distress and potential long-term health issues in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe psychoactive alkaloids in Lophophora diffusa can cause severe neurological and physiological disturbances in dogs, including disorientation, hyperactivity, and cardiovascular stress. The plant's effects can be particularly dangerous for pets due to their smaller size and sensitivity to such compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLophophora diffusa contains psychoactive alkaloids, primarily mescaline, which can induce hallucinations, altered perception, and physiological effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure. The plant's toxicity is due to its potent psychoactive compounds that disrupt normal neurological function.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lophophora diffusa legal to cultivate?
A: Legal status varies by region; it is often restricted due to psychoactive properties.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Infrequently, only when soil is completely dry, typically once every few weeks.
Q: What are its typical growing conditions?
A: Requires full sun, well-draining soil, and minimal water in a warm, arid environment.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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