Peruvian Torch XL (Echinopsis peruviana)

Peruvian Torch XL (Echinopsis Peruviana): A Close Relative of San Pedro

The use of mescaline cacti dates back thousands of years and played a key role in the development of the rich cultures of South America. Here, the different cacti of the Andes played a central role in local spiritual practices and rituals. While San Pedro is widely regarded as one of the most famous of these mescaline cacti, Peruvian torch (Echinopsis peruviana) was just as important to the spiritual traditions of Peru.

Like its close relative the Bolivian torch, Peruvian torch grows up to 5 m tall with 15–20 cm-wide ribbed branches. Most Peruvian torch varieties develop 6–8 ribs and, unlike San Pedro, have very long, dark-coloured spines from a young age. Peruvian torch also tends to preserve a darker green colour than Bolivian torch and San Pedro cactus varieties. In summer, it produces large white flowers that open at night and often remain open the following day.

The use of Peruvian torch and other mescaline cacti was, of course, denounced by the Catholic Church following the conquest of the Americas. However, that did nothing to stop the use of these ancient plants, which to this day continue to play a central role throughout South American societies. Like San Pedro, the Peruvian torch is grown in many homes around Peru and its spiritual properties are arguably as relevant to Peru's culture today as ever before. Whether you're a psychonaut looking to experiment with the revered effects of this cactus or simply want to add a new variety to your cactus garden, growing Peruvian torch at home is easier than ever before with these XL cuttings measuring 5–9 cm wide and 50 cm long.

How to Grow Peruvian Torch Cactus at Home

At Zamnesia, we pride ourselves on helping growers achieve only the best results in their gardens. That's why we take care to source, select, and inspect each of our cactus cuts before shipping. For the best results, we recommend planting your Peruvian torch as soon as it arrives. Do not plant Peruvian torch or any of our mescaline cactus varieties in potting soil—instead, use cactus-specific soil as these have the right nutrient blend and density for these plants. Make sure you place your cutting in a decent-sized pot with plenty of drainage holes.

For the first 3–4 weeks, do not water your Peruvian torch, and keep cuttings in the shade to allow them to develop roots. Then, move your plants into a sunny spot and water sparingly—no more than 3 times a week in summer, once a week in spring/autumn, and no more than once every 3 weeks in winter. Like all cacti from the Andes, the Peruvian torch is extra hardy and can handle cold temperatures and drought with ease. It grows roughly 30–40 cm each year in optimal conditions.

Effects of Peruvian Torch Cactus

The Peruvian Torch is a mescaline cactus and a key ingredient in cimora—a traditional shamanic brew used in spiritual ceremonies. The effects of the cactus are very strong, causing euphoria, hallucinations, and sometimes vomiting (often considered a sign of a positive purge of the organism). An average dose of pure mescaline is 0.3–0.4 grams.

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