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Table of Contents
Trichocereus bridgesii — Identification
T. bridgesii (Bolivian Torch, Achuma / Wachuma) is a slender, fewer-ribbed columnar species from Bolivia, famous in cultivation for its striking monstrose (TBM) and crested forms.
At a glance
| Feature | T. bridgesii |
|---|---|
| Ribs | typically 4–8 (often 4–6) — usually fewer than pachanoi |
| Spines | variable, often longer and needle-like; honey to brown |
| Epidermis | light-to-mid green, sometimes glaucous |
| Areoles | widely spaced |
| Habit | erect, columnar, can look elongated/segmented; base-branching |
| Native | Bolivia |
Key identifying features
The combination of a low rib count with widely-spaced areoles and often longer needle spines separates most bridgesii from pachanoi/peruvianus. The monstrose (TBM) and crested (cristate) cultivars — lumpy, disorganised growth — are unmistakable and hugely popular.
Commonly confused with
- T. peruvianus — usually more ribs and heavier, and a bluer cast.
- T. pachanoi — more ribs, closer areoles, shorter spines.
Examples from our archive
Community-submitted clones identified as T. bridgesii. Click a clone for its full page.
Dave Reynolds Bridgesii — full page
Cove bridgesii
Kumeyaay Bridgesii — full page
Trichocereus bridgesii Con — full page
BBB bridgesii
Walt's Melty Bridgesii
Part of the Trichocereus Species & ID Guide. This is a horticultural ID reference, not definitive taxonomy — Trichocereus species intergrade and their classification is debated. Example photos are community-submitted clones from our archive; click a clone for its page.