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Growers Notes... New Species or Not??

Lophophora Williamsii
var. Nuevo Yucatan

Lophophora Williamsii var. Nuevo Yucatan from the area of Coahuila Mexico, has a tendency to shoot somewhat smaller more delicate looking flowers, but is most definately a must have for every collector. Easily germinated, the plant has more of an ash grey tone in appearance, is quite hardy and provides for a wonderful slightly different look to the typical form. This is a highly recommended variation for both the novice as well as the seasoned collector, simply for the difference in flower size and appearance alone. As can be seen in the photo at the bottom of the page this variation also grows quite a substantial tuber even as a seedling.

Above: Lophophora Williamsii var. Nuevo Yucatan in flower

Above: Lophophora Williamsii var. Nuevo Yucatan

Above: Sixteen month old Lophophora Williamsii var. Nuevo Yucatan seedlings

Measuring 8.7 centimetres in diameter at three years and nine months the L.W. var Nuevo Yucatan specimen shown here below is an incredible example of how big some of these Lophophora variations can grow in a few short years. What is even more surprising is that even though growth has been beyond eight centimetres these plants still have only eight ribs and are only beginning to split into thirteen ribs which should make them gargantuan one full grown.

So far the only variation that has seemed to match this kind of growth and possibly surpassed it has been those of the menchaca variation. The main difference between the Nuevo Yucatan and the Menchaca variations has been in pollination. The Nuevo Yucatan variation is without a doubt self pollinating and produces seed pods like crazy while the Menchaca variation although just as large and beautiful is self sterile requiring cross pollination. Both variations are incredibly similar when you look at them and almost impossible to tell apart due to similar structure in its manner of growth although none of my Nuevo Yucatan plants have sprouted pups, whereas a number of my menchaca plants have, even though botanists have noted that the menchaca variation is supposed to grow as a single bodied plant. Anyhow for those wanting a lophophora specimen that grows strictly on its own this seems to be the variation to go with for now although things might change with years of growth.

Above: Lophophora Williamsii var. Nuevo Yucatan at Three years and Nine months measuring a remarkable 8.7 centimeters in diameter