San Pedro XL (Echinopsis pachanoi)

San Pedro XL (Echinopsis Pachanoi): A Magical, Ancient Plant From the Andes

Archaeological evidence suggests that humans have used the San Pedro cactus for over 2,000 years. Among the first holistic plants of the indigenous people of the Andes, the San Pedro cactus played a vital role in the development of Andean society and culture. Though a different species with a unique habitat and history, the San Pedro cactus is often confused with other similar species of mescaline cacti, including Bolivian torch and Peruvian torch.

Mature San Pedro cacti grow into tree-like structures, with several large columnar branches measuring up to 6 m. A single stem of mature San Pedro can measure up to 15 cm wide and may develop between 4–8 ribs with white areoles and few spines. In summer, the cactus produces large, white, trumpet-shaped nocturnal flowers that give off a very fragrant scent.

Though its use was denounced by the Catholic Church, the San Pedro cactus continues to form a central part of traditional rituals throughout Peru, Ecuador, and neighboring regions, many of which employ a mix of both Christian and traditional pagan practices. Of course, thanks to its concentration of mescaline, peptides, and other active compounds, San Pedro continues to attract users interested in experimenting with its unique psychedelic effect and potential wellness properties. Grow this traditional South American staple at home with Zamnesia's live XL San Pedro cuttings measuring 5–9 cm wide and 50 cm long.

How to Grow San Pedro Cactus at Home

We carefully source and inspect all of our cactus cuttings before shipping to ensure they are healthy. Once you receive your cutting, plant it directly in a pot with cacti-specific potting soil and drainage holes. Do not plant San Pedro in regular soil, as it is often too nutrient-dense and may inhibit the healthy growth of the cactus.

Keep young San Pedro cuttings in the shade and do not water them for the first 3–4 weeks after planting. Once a cactus has established roots, place it in a sunny spot and water 3 times a week in summer; once a week in spring/autumn, and once every 2–3 weeks in winter.

For the best results, avoid watering San Pedro (and all cacti for that matter) from above. Instead, place them in a shallow dish and allow the cactus to take up water via the drainage holes in its pot. This avoids overwatering, which can cause stunted growth and attract pathogens/pests. In the right conditions, the San Pedro cactus grows at a rate of up to 30–40cm a year. San Pedro is considered a hardy and easy-to-grow cactus variety that can withstand cold conditions of up to -12°C.

Effects of San Pedro Cactus

San Pedro is rich in mescaline, peptides, and other active compounds, resulting in pronounced euphoria and hallucinations. Traditionally, this cactus is included with other ingredients in a shamanic brew called cimora and used in rituals. Sometimes, the consumption of mescaline cacti may induce vomiting, which ancient cultures considered cleansing. An average dose of pure mescaline is 0.3–0.4 grams.

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