Althea x Frankie Seedlings

Trichocereus peruvianus ‘Althea’ x ‘Frankie’ is a very exciting collector cross between two highly regarded clone lines. The seed parent, Althea, is a sought-after Trichocereus peruvianus clone known for its heavy blue glaucous bloom, broad rounded ribs and relatively short spination. Althea is generally associated with Peruvianus genetics from the Matucana mountain region of Peru and was introduced into wider circulation by the US grower GeeBee. It has gained a strong reputation among collectors for its slow, chunky, highly glaucous growth. The pollen parent, Frankie, is a rare Australian clone with a more mysterious background. The available history suggests Frankie was originally gifted to Australian grower Rodni Chisar, who later cloned and distributed it. Its exact classification is debated, with traits that appear to sit somewhere around peruvianus, pachanoi and possibly chiloensis-type influence. Visually, Frankie is known for strong rib definition, pronounced notching and long golden-brown spines.

Together, this cross has the potential to produce seedlings with a fantastic mix of traits: blue-green colour, chunky rib structure, notchy growth, strong golden spination and classic Peruvianus vigour. As seedlings, each plant will be genetically unique, so expect natural variation between individuals — that’s half the fun with a cross like this. The current batch is showing healthy upright growth, well-defined ribs, tan to golden-brown spines and good early character. Supplied rooted in size grades.

Key features

• Rare Althea x Frankie Trichocereus cross
• High-value collector genetics
• Althea: glaucous blue, chunky, short-spined Peruvianus type
• Frankie: notchy, golden-spined, rare Australian clone
• Seed-grown plants: Each seedling is genetically unique
• Strong early ribbing and healthy spination
• Ideal for Trichocereus collectors and growers