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Kia
Description
Kia (frequently referred to in the community as “Kai”) is an Australian Trichocereus bridgesii clone. It is characterized by a glaucous to green epidermis and a tendency toward rib-shifting. The plant features long brown spines that gradually turn white with age. Its growth habit can occasionally present as semi-monstruose, described by some growers as “munted,” lumpy, funky, or columnar.
History & Origin
This clone originated in Australia. There are two primary accounts regarding its commercial introduction: it was either distributed by the defunct nursery Magickal Botanicals or sold via Shamanis Australis Botanicals. A variegated sport of this clone is also documented to be circulating within the Australian cultivation community. Additionally, hybrid specimens of this clone have reportedly been offered by European nurseries such as Haage Kakteen.
Cultivation Notes
As a Trichocereus bridgesii clone, Kia prefers well-draining soil mixes with a high inorganic content to prevent root rot. It thrives under partial to full sunlight and benefits from regular watering during the active growing season, allowed to dry out completely between waterings.
Community Discussion & Citations
The community discussion primarily centers on clarifying the clone's origin nurseries, its growth characteristics, and its nomenclature, with some notes on hybrid availability in Europe.
| Date | Speaker | Confidence Score | Key Insight/Quote |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 (approx) | Tim Andrewartha | 8 | “T. bridgesii “Kai.” Originally sourced from the defunct Magickal Botanicals. Rib shifting, glaucous to green body and long brown spines turning white with age.” |
| 2025 (approx) | Tim Andrewartha | 8 | “Known for being a munted Aussie bridge!” |
| 2025 (approx) | Chris Nichols | 7 | “iirc it was sold via shamanis australis botanicals plant nursery. there's a variegated kai clone kicking around oz as well.” |
Credibility Notes
Tim Andrewartha was assigned a high confidence score due to providing specific, detailed morphological traits (rib-shifting, spine color transitions) and naming a specific defunct historical source. Chris Nichols was rated highly for providing consistent historical context regarding Australian nursery distribution and noting the existence of a variegated sport.
✍️ Contributors: medicactus, hamasuda