kk242

KK242 is a well-known collection number designated by Karel Knize, typically associated with specimens of *Trichocereus cuzcoensis* or *Trichocereus peruvianus* originating from Peru. Because it represents a large batch of seeds distributed over several decades, plants grown from this designation exhibit significant morphological variation, ranging from Matucana-type *T. peruvianus* to *T. cuzcoensis* phenotypes.

In addition to seed-grown variable specimens, there are two distinct clones in circulation under this name:

• KK242 Peruvianus clone: A highly sought-after, glaucous blue-green *T. peruvianus* featuring medium-to-long spines and prominent areoles.
• KK242 Pachanoi clone: A much less common variant, though fewer details are documented regarding its specific morphology.

The designation KK242 originally traces back to the Czech-Peruvian seed and plant distributor Karel Knize. However, a specific specimen highlighted in community discussions carries a unique domestic provenance. According to community accounts, this particular plant belongs to Skip Jones, who reportedly acquired it directly from the renowned pharmacologist Alexander “Sasha” Shulgin. The plant is located in the United States, and historical anecdotes suggest it may have been acquired during an era when collectors traded adeniums for cacti.

No specific cultivation requirements were detailed in the discussion for this clone. General *Trichocereus* cultivation guidelines should be followed:

• Substrate: Use a highly porous, gritty soil mix (at least 50% inorganic material such as pumice, perlite, or decomposed granite) to ensure rapid drainage.
• Watering: Implement a “soak and dry” cycle during the active spring and summer growing seasons. Keep the soil completely dry during winter dormancy to prevent root rot.
• Exposure: Provide bright, filtered light or full morning sun, taking care to acclimate the plant slowly to prevent sunburn.

The discussion focuses on verifying the provenance of a specific plant linked to the Shulgin Garden, while also clarifying the broader botanical context of the KK242 designation. Commenters distinguish between the highly variable seed-grown plants distributed by Knize and the specific vegetative clones (Peruvianus and Pachanoi types) circulating in the community. While some participants note visual similarities to specimens purchased on online platforms like eBay, they express skepticism regarding commercial labeling accuracy.

* Alan Howard was assigned a confidence score of 7 due to providing specific, verifiable provenance details regarding the plant's ownership (Skip Jones) and origin (Sasha Shulgin). This identification was validated by other participants in the thread (such as Maura McCusker, who confirmed she had forgotten the owner's name). * Joshua Brooks was assigned a confidence score of 8 for providing detailed, accurate botanical context regarding the history of Karel Knize's seed distributions and distinguishing the variable seed-grown phenotypes from the specific clones established in cultivation.