Some cactus species closely resemble Lophophora williamsii, commonly known as peyote, leading to the informal designation of “false peyote.” While visually similar, these are distinct species with different characteristics. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate identification, preventing potential misidentification.
Understanding “False Peyote”
“False peyote” refers to various cactus species that mimic the appearance of true peyote, Lophophora williamsii, but are not botanically related or do not share its chemical properties. This visual similarity often stems from shared adaptations to arid environments, such as a compact, spineless, globular form that conserves water and reduces exposure to harsh sunlight. Their grey-green to bluish-green coloration also contributes to this mimicry, allowing them to blend seamlessly with rocky, desert landscapes. The term “false peyote” is an informal label used by enthusiasts to highlight this deceptive resemblance, not a formal botanical classification.
Why Accurate Identification Is Crucial
Accurate identification of Lophophora williamsii versus its lookalikes is crucial due to legal and safety considerations. In the United States, Lophophora williamsii is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, indicating a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use. A narrow exemption exists for its use in bona fide religious ceremonies by the Native American Church. Outside of this specific religious context, possession or distribution of true peyote is illegal and carries severe penalties. Consuming any unidentified plant, regardless of psychoactive properties, poses inherent dangers due to potential toxicity.
Common Plants Mistaken for Peyote
Several plant genera are frequently confused with Lophophora williamsii due to their similar size, shape, and often spineless nature. Ariocarpus fissuratus, known as Living Rock Cactus, forms a star-shaped rosette of thick, triangular tubercles that lie nearly flat on the soil surface, giving it a rugged, stone-like appearance. Certain Mammillaria species, or pincushion cacti, are also mistaken for peyote; some varieties are nearly spineless with globular bodies resembling peyote. Astrophytum asterias, called Star Cactus, is another frequent lookalike. This small, squat, spineless cactus has a disc-shaped body divided into 7-10 distinct ribs, often speckled with small, white scales.
Key Differences for Identification
Distinguishing Lophophora williamsii from its lookalikes requires careful observation of specific morphological characteristics. True peyote typically displays a dome-like, fleshy body with 5 to 13 low, rounded ribs. Each rib usually bears a tuft of pale woolly hairs (areoles) at its apex. The plant’s coloration is generally pale blue-green to light greyish-green, and its small, often pink or white, star-shaped flowers emerge from the center. A key feature is its large, fleshy, carrot-shaped taproot.
In contrast, Ariocarpus fissuratus is characterized by deeply fissured, triangular tubercles that give it a rough, rock-like texture, distinct from peyote’s smoother ribs. Its pink-violet flowers are larger, appearing from the woolly crown. Mammillaria species, while sometimes spineless, often have prominent, nipple-like tubercles and flowers that vary widely in color and form, often forming a ring around the plant’s top.
Astrophytum asterias stands out with its distinct 7-10 triangular ribs and a pattern of tiny whitish or yellowish scales (trichomes) covering its surface, which peyote lacks. It produces pale yellow flowers with orange-red bases, unlike peyote’s pink or white blooms. Astrophytum asterias also possesses a fibrous root system, differing from the robust taproot of Lophophora williamsii.
Safety Considerations of “False Peyote” Plants
The consumption of “false peyote” plants can pose various safety concerns, depending on the species. Ariocarpus fissuratus contains phenethylamine alkaloids, which can lead to adverse effects such as disorientation, confusion, and hallucinations if ingested. Indigenous groups have historically warned against its consumption, considering it a “dangerous peyote” due to its unpredictable and unpleasant effects.
In contrast, many Mammillaria species are considered non-toxic to humans and pets, though their sharp spines can cause physical injury. Astrophytum asterias is also not known to be toxic. Despite varying toxicity levels, it is important to exercise caution and avoid consuming any wild plant without certainty of its identification and safety.