How to Care for Trichocereus Scopulicola

The Scopulicola, or Trichocereus Scopulicola, is a species of san pedro that is well-known for its nearly spineless appearance and impressive thick growth. Native to Bolivia, this imposing cactus has quickly become a favorite of collectors and enthusiasts alike, and we can definitely see why!

In this comprehensive guide, we’re going to go over basic care needs of the Scopulicola like light, soil, and watering, as well as propagation, common problems, and more.

Scopulicola vs Pachanoi

The main differences between the Scopulicola and Trichocereus Pachanoi are the stems, spines, and areoles. As a mature plant, the stems of the Scopulicola are much much thicker with fewer ribs on average than a Pachanoi, and the spines become tiny, giving it a nearly spineless appearance. The areoles on Scops are much smaller and more oval-shaped, with quite a bit of distinct furrowing that make them look sunken in, whereas Pachanoi tend to have the V shaped notching above the rounder areoles.

Some Scop seedlings will show longer spines and not have the furrowing, less sunken areoles, and fewer rib count until they mature. If you get any younger scops from us and are wondering why they may have these features then that is why.

For a more in-depth comparison between the major 5 types of trichocereus you can check out our guide on the subject here.

Optimal Lighting & Placement

Make sure to give Scops a healthy amount of sunlight every day to avoid skinny, etiolated growth. These cacti love full sun, just make sure to introduce them gradually if they were previously in lower light conditions to avoid burn. While scops prefer to be outdoors in full sun we understand that it’s not always possible, so if they’re indoors make sure to place them in the brightest spot you can find. You’ll likely need to use grow lights to avoid etiolation make sure they receive an adequate amount of light every day.

Soil and Repotting Tips for Scopulicola

We recommend a well-draining soil mixture that is a ratio of about at least 50% inorganic material like pumice to organic material like peat moss or coco coir, to prevent issues due to too much moisture. If you’re planting a Scop outdoors then make sure to add more inorganic material to the mixture to reduce potential issues down the line during wet seasons. Always make sure to test the soil to see how well it drains and amend as needed. 

When repotting make sure to give these caci plenty of support as the thicker stems can become quite top heavy as they grow. Plant them deep in soil so that they can anchor themselves well and have stability, and consider stakes for even extra support for larger cacti. Then marvel at the fact that you didn’t need to use gloves the entire time!

How & When to Water Scopulicola Cacti

You’ll know when it’s time to water when the soil is completely dry and the stem of the cactus feels a bit deflated and softer to the touch rather than nice and firm. The ribs will get sunken in and skinny rather than their usual more broad, round shape. When it’s time to water make sure to thoroughly saturate the soil with several rounds of water. If your cacti are in pots then there needs to be drainage so that excess water can escape through the bottom. Then when you’re done give the soil time to completely dry out before watering again. Remember to decrease watering frequency during the colder months of the year to help avoid overwatering.

Temperature Tolerance and Protection

The growing seasons for Scopulicola are in the warmer months, usually Spring to early Fall, and will typically go dormant in the winter.

These cacti are prone to frost damage at temperatures lower than 30 degrees Fahrenheit so make sure to take preventative measures to avoid this like frost blankets or bringing them indoors if possible.

Managing Humidity and Fungal Issues

Humidity issues on Scopulicola will look like black spots that turn into calluses. Fungus issues like we’re showing here also arise from there being too much moisture, so make sure to keep your cacti in areas with good airflow and well-draining soil.

If the infection is significant it may be necessary to cut away any unhealthy sections of the cactus and replant the healthy portions. Otherwise a fungicide will also work wonders as a preventative treatment.

Fungicides, well-draining soil, good airflow, and fertilizing in the growing season will help to keep your Scop happy and healthy, and less prone to systemic issues forming in the long run.

Scopulicola Pests and Treatment

Scops are susceptible to the usual san pedro pest suspects including mealybugs, scale, and snails. 70%+ isopropyl alcohol can be used to treat affected areas from most pests, and also works great for preventing further infestations, and SlugGo is a good option for snails.

How to Propagate Scopulicola Cacti

Propagating a Scopulicola can be done through stem cuttings, grafting, or seeds, and are made all the more easier to handle by their nearly spineless nature. If you’d like to watch more in-depth videos on taking and planting cuttings, or propagation by grafting, then please feel free to watch our videos on each process.

Fertilizing Scopulicola

The best time to fertilize a Scop is during their growing season in the spring and summer, as this will further enhance their fast growth during this time. We recommend regularly using a liquid fertilizer during the growing season, and mixing it in about every other watering. Avoid nitrogen rich fertilizers and instead use a ratio with more balanced macronutrients.

Scopulicola Night Blooms

The Scopulicola blooms large white, night-blooming flowers that have white to brown hairs on the outside. These plants are self-sterile and will need to be crossbred with a different cultivar of scopulicola or different species of trichocereus to produce seeds.

Conclusion

And that’s the basic care for the Trichocereus Scopulicola! Make sure to give these plenty of sunlight, use an especially well draining soil medium, and take preventative measures against pests and other common issues so that you can have a thriving cactus in your garden.

Key Takeaways

• Scopulicola cacti thrive in full sunlight, which is essential to prevent skinny, etiolated growth. If grown indoors, placing them in the brightest spot and supplementing with grow lights is important.
• A soil mixture with at least 50% inorganic material, such as pumice, is recommended to prevent moisture-related issues. 
• Only water Scopulicola when the soil is completely dry and the cactus feels slightly deflated. Overwatering can lead to serious issues, so it's important to adjust watering frequency, especially in colder months.
• Proper temperature control, good airflow, and preventive measures like fungicides are vital for maintaining plant health.
• Scopulicola can be propagated through stem cuttings, grafting, or seeds.
• Regular fertilization during the growing season enhances their fast growth. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers and opt for balanced macronutrients instead.