San Pedro Cactus

The popular San Pedro Cactus (Echinopsis pachanoi) is a fast-growing, columnar cactus native to the high altitudes of the Andes Mountains. Under optimal conditions, it can grow 1-2 feet per year, eventually reaching mature heights of up to 20 feet. This remarkable cactus, with slender stems around six inches in diameter, makes a striking addition to any garden, providing both vertical interest and drought tolerance.

In July, it produces large, white, fragrant flowers that bloom at night and last for about two days, adding a stunning visual to its upright structure. Also known as Trichocereus pachanoi or Trichocereus macrogonus var. pachanoi, this versatile cactus features smooth, green-skinned stems with 5 to 8 rounded ribs and blunt tips. Over time, multiple stems will emerge from the base, creating a 6-foot-wide vertical feature in your landscape.

Unlike other columnar cacti, it has fewer and shorter spines, making it suitable for patios, walkways, and indoor containers in a sunny spot. The spines, typically 2 to 10 per areole, measure about ¾ inch long and vary in color. These spines emerge from small, greyish-white areoles, appearing as evenly spaced dots along the ribs, with distinctive V-shaped notches just above them.