San Pedro cactus seeds are one of the ways you can grow this beautiful cactus. This succulent is the most famous member of the Echinopsis genus. However, it is sometimes confused with its relative the Echinopsis peruviana or Peruvian Torch Cactus. It is native to the South American Andes, growing at altitudes from 6000 to 9000 ft. (2000-3000 m).
The Echinopsis pachanoi is also known as Achuma, Wachuma, Aguacolla, or Giganton, and it has been used for thousands of years in Peru for its medicinal properties. It can be found in the wild not just in Peru but in Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, and Ecuador. It is easy to grow and adapts to all kinds of weather, so it is very appreciated by beginner and professional gardeners.
San Pedro Cactus seeds
San Pedro Cactus seeds are similar to other cacti seeds, they are little, black, and not edible; also like other cacti, they come from its dark green oblong fruit, which becomes magenta when ripe. It grows about 1.2 in(3 cm) across and 2.0-2.4 in (5-6 cm) wide. San Pedro Cactus produces a beautiful, very fragrant, white flower, which is large (20 cm diameter), lasts only two days, and can be pollinated manually.
San Pedro Cactus seeds cannot be older than two years for being usable. You can obtain them directly from the fruit when it is ripe, you must clean them and let them dry for a few days before germinating them. You can also buy them but you should buy certified seeds and confirm they are not older than two years because older seeds probably will not grow.
To germinate them is easy, you only need well-drained sandy soil mixed with coco coir and pumice in a small pot of plastic or glass. You should put the seed in the soil and push them gently in it. Then spray the seedbed with some water and preferably cover it with a clear plastic wrap. Keep it in a warm place away from direct sunlight with temperatures around 77-86º F (25-30 º C).
Uses of San Pedro Cactus
There are reports of the use of this cactus for more than 3000 years by the Moche tribe. The stem, blended and soaked in cold water is used to wash the hair and treat dandruff. The stem is peeled or scraped and left to ferment in a jar. The resulting product can be used as a substitute for shampoo. Slices of the stem are used to relieve headaches and kidney pain.
It is also used to treat all kinds of illnesses like fever, cancer, diabetes, hepatitis, high blood pressure, and other conditions. It is used to treat skin conditions like mycosis, cuts, even snake bites. It has been proved to be effective in the treatment of psychological and emotional problems like depression, anxiety, and grief. Its active principle is used to treat alcohol and some drug addictions.
Benefits of San Pedro Cactus
San Pedro Cactus is a powerful antimicrobial and antifungal, being effective against more than 15 penicillin-resistant bacterias. Its stem is used to prepare tonics and as an aphrodisiac. Also if it is consumed in small doses can improve the concentration and the capacity of solving problems. The cooked stem has great properties as a conditioner for the hair.
These are just a few of the benefits this cactus has. The stem can be used externally in hair or skin. It is easy to grow and care for. San Pedro Cactus seeds are easy to find and germinate. They resist all kinds of weather and grow fast, so to have one San Pedro Cactus and enjoy its benefits is easier than it may appear.