Lophophora williamsii, commonly known as peyote, is a small, spineless cactus native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is known for its psychoactive properties due to the presence of mescaline, a naturally occurring hallucinogen. Peyote has been used for centuries in various indigenous cultures for spiritual and medicinal purposes. The cactus typically grows in dry, rocky areas and can take several years to mature. When consumed, peyote can induce altered states of consciousness, including visual and auditory hallucinations. Its use is often associated with traditional rituals and ceremonies, particularly among Native American communities.