> ⚙️ **Auto-generated, pending human review.** This page was compiled automatically by a bot from community discussions and has **not yet been verified by an editor**; details may be imperfect and corrections are welcome. //Editors: delete this line once you have reviewed the page.// ====== Trichocereus scopulicola ====== ===== Description ===== Trichocereus scopulicola is a columnar cactus characterized by its robust, dark green to glaucous green stems. It typically features 4 to 6 broad, rounded ribs with flat, inconspicuous areoles. Spines are extremely short, often absent or reduced to tiny, blunt radials, making the plant appear virtually spineless. Flowers are large, nocturnal, white, and fragrant, typical of the genus. ===== History & Origin ===== The primary documented origin of Trichocereus scopulicola in cultivation is the collection by German botanist Friedrich Ritter in Bolivia under the field number FR991. The species is widely believed to be highly restricted in its native habitat, with some community members suggesting it may be functionally extinct in the wild due to grazing by introduced goats. However, rumors and unconfirmed reports of wild populations and alternative seed collections persist. ===== Cultivation Notes ===== While specific cultivation notes were not detailed in the community discussion, Trichocereus scopulicola generally thrives in a well-draining mineral soil mix. It prefers moderate to heavy watering during the active growing season (spring through autumn) and should be kept dry during winter dormancy. It tolerates partial shade to full sun, though protection from intense afternoon sun is recommended in hot climates. ===== Community Discussion & Citations ===== //Analysis of the discussion shows a consensus that the majority of cultivated specimens trace back to Friedrich Ritter's FR991 seed collection, alongside ongoing speculation regarding surviving wild populations.// ^ Date ^ Speaker ^ Key Insight/Quote ^ | 2024 (approx) | James Buchanan | "The only recorded scopulicola came from Fredrick Ritter who harvested seeds from Bolivia. Without any other known provenance it's safe to say that most if not all scopulicola in cultivation came from those seeds. No records of cuttings exist." | | 2024 (approx) | Bob Baker | "supposedly Josh Norssworthy has located a source in the wild or so the story goes." | | 2024 (approx) | Ann Lobivia | "Alex Cespedes from Bolivia sent me 2 scopulicolas from seed collected in the wild. One didn't survive. The other one is doing well." | | 2024 (approx) | Matt Baird | "supposedly the entire species was geographically isolated, which isn't uncommon. Soon after Ritter found the plants, goats were introduced and the entire species was destroyed. There haven't been any other sitings of the species in habitat." | ===== Contributor Confidence ===== //Visible to trusted reviewers only.// ^ Contributor ^ Confidence ^ | James Buchanan | 8/10 | | Bob Baker | 10/10 | | Ann Lobivia | 7/10 | | Matt Baird | 7/10 | ===== Credibility Notes ===== Bob Baker is recognized as a high-confidence expert within the community, providing valuable leads on modern search efforts. James Buchanan, Ann Lobivia, and Matt Baird provided consistent, detailed historical context regarding the FR991 collection, habitat destruction, and potential alternative wild seed sources, earning them high credibility scores.