Peyote with Pups (Lophophora williamsii)

Peyote with Pups: A special breed of peyote that has the collector in mind

Natively called Peyotl, this cactus first hailed from the dry regions of Mexico. It has been a significant part of history, especially during the times of the Spanish Conquistadors. The Spanish empire was notorious for imposing its beliefs on those who came under their subjugation, and it was no different for the people of what is now Mexico. The Spanish saw peyote as part of the worship of false Gods – peyote itself is considered to be the living god El Mescalito. As a result, peyote was outlawed and driven from mainstream recognition.

Our Peyote with Pups is a special breed. Instead of having the one traditional growth, this rarer, collector’s version of peyote grows with numerous pups. Peyote is quite a small cactus in stature; it grows low above soil level when compared to more traditional cacti, with the majority of the peyote cactus growing underground as a large tap root.

They are extremely slow growing, taking up to 3 years to go from seed to a mature adult plant. This, in conjunction with overharvesting and the increasing use of land for ranching, has seen a decline in the amount of peyote growing wild – to the point where it is now an endangered species.

The re-emergence of peyote and our Peyote with Pups is largely due to the establishment of the Native American Church in the 90s. This has seen a keen niche interest build in the area, with collectors wanting to obtain it for themselves. If you fancy yourself a peyote fan, then obtaining this unusual specimen may be right up your street.