Description

Lophophora Williamsii Var Real De Catorce Cactus Seeds

Real de Catorce is a village in the Mexican state of San Luis Potosí. This ‘ghost-town’ in the high and dry expanses of northern San Luis Potosí state was once a thriving silver mining settlement. Real de Catorce has long been a pilgrimage site renowned for its spiritual energy for both local Catholics and Huichol shamanists. It is located in the Sierra de Catorce range, one of the highest plateaus in Mexico

Wixárika (Huichol) indigenous peoples walk across miles of desert from Nayarit, Durango, Jalisco and Zacatecas to visit the valley of Catorce every spring to leave religious offerings at the “Cerro Quemado”, a ceremonial center to the east of their mystical religious territory. Quemado is, according to their ancestral beliefs, the birthplace of their “Tatewari” or Grandfather Fire.

During this time, they also visit the Wirikuta or desert below Real de Catorce to gather a year’s supply of sacred nourishment in the form of peyote or “hikuri”, the magical cactus that they use to guide their path and consciousness. Though found throughout the region, the cacti in the Wirikuta purportedly produce the most desired crop.

The Lophophora williamsii cactus, also known as peyote, is a rare spineless cactus native to Northern Mexico and South Texas. Most young plants have 5 ribs, while older specimens can grow up to 13 ribs. They usually grow solitary, but can also grow caespitose. They maintain a large subterranean taproot which acts as a water reservoir during the dry season. Once mature they regularly display beautiful pink flowers throughout the summer months. However, Lophophora is a slow growing cactus it can take a decade to reach flowering age. Dedication and patience will lead to healthy and rewarding plants. With fresh seeds, some guidance, and basic supplies anyone can grow Lophophora williamsii at home from seed and help preserve it for future generations. Lophophora enjoys the company of other plants and does well potted in large groups. It should be grown in partial shade to avoid damaging the cactus from intense sunlight.

Looking for rare localities, or other Lophophora cacti to complete your cactus collection ? See our Lophophora cactus seeds.

The Cactus Propagation page contains useful Lophophora seed sowing tips.

See our Lophophora specimen plants for live cacti, or other varieties of Lophophora cactus seeds.

Cactus propagation page contains useful Lophophora seed sowing tips.