trichocereus pachanoi cristato

Native to the Peruvian Andes, Trichocereus pachanoi cristato inhabits volcanic rocky slopes at 2000-3000 m altitude. This crested form exhibits fasciated growth with diffuse apical meristems and contorted branching, diverging from the typical columnar habit of the genus. Crested columns 5-10 cm wide with undulate ribs 1-2 cm thick. Spines absent or reduced; epidermis bright green turning bluish in winter. Growth forms irregular fasciations with contorted branches and expanded apices.