SS02

SS02 is a highly celebrated clone of *Trichocereus* (syn. *Echinopsis*) lineage, widely classified as a *Trichocereus bridgesii* or “bridgesoid” type. It is characterized by a semi-nudum or “bald” appearance compared to typical spiny *T. bridgesii* specimens, though it can produce longer spines under certain conditions or when grafted. The epidermis is typically glaucous green with prominent ribs and relatively sparse areoles.

The clone was sourced from the private collection of renowned cactus collectors Ed and Betty Gay, who were known for their extensive field collections in South America and domestic acquisitions. Ben Kamm (BK) of Sacred Succulents acquired massive quantities of the plant—described as “literally full U-Haul loads”—from the Gays' extensive stands.

Initially, Ben Kamm referred to the clone as a “bridgesoid” due to its unique morphology, which differed from typical *T. bridgesii* clones in cultivation. However, after observing wild southern populations of *T. bridgesii* in Bolivia (where the local Aymara word for the plant is “achuma”) that closely resembled SS02, Kamm transitioned to classifying it as a true *T. bridgesii*. The exact original source of the plant before the Gays' collection remains unknown.

While specific cultivation requirements for SS02 are not heavily detailed in the source discussion, community members note that seed collections from the southern Bolivian populations do not fully replicate the distinct SS02 morphology when grown under California conditions. There is also open discussion regarding whether grafting SS02 onto vigorous rootstocks coaxes the clone into producing longer spines. As with most *T. bridgesii*, it thrives in well-draining soil, requiring dry dormancy in winter and moderate watering during the active growing season.