Max-01

Max-01 (also referred to as “Max” or “MX-01”) is a distinct and unusual Trichocereus clone. It is characterized by prominent, unique protrusions subtending each areole. When the ribs are viewed from the side, the notches appear notably long, arcing down the entire length of the protrusion, giving the plant an appearance that closely resembles a monstrose growth habit. The plant is capable of growing very thick (“fat”) and develops longer spines when cultivated in high-light conditions.

The clone originated in the garden of a deceased president of the Los Angeles Cactus and Succulent Society. Although the original garden was eventually cleared and the mother plant was bulldozed during a tree removal project, Desmond Stetson salvaged several pieces of the cactus. Rather than being marketed through commercial hype releases, the clone was distributed primarily among friends and acquaintances within the Southern California cactus community. Mark Ostrom has been noted as a key source of the clone's distribution.

Max-01 responds well to grafting, with documented success using Trichocereus “PC” and Trichocereus grandiflorus as rootstocks. For optimal growth, it should be transitioned to full sun, which encourages a thicker caliper and longer spine development.

Analysis of the discussion. The community discussion focuses on verifying the identity of a specimen as Max-01. Members trace the clone's provenance back to the salvaged Los Angeles collection and describe its unique morphological traits, defending its status as a distinct, high-quality clone rather than an arbitrary “new name” created for market speculation.

James Dugan and Daniel Hackbarth received high credibility scores (8/10) for providing detailed, specific historical provenance and morphological descriptions that help distinguish the clone. Mark Ostrom and Bryan Harris received scores of 7/10 as they are direct growers of the clone with firsthand knowledge of its cultivation habits, lineage, and propagation history.