During winter, when the vast majority of plants are hibernating, there is a cactus that produces some of the most beautiful flowers in the world: the Schlumbergera truncata. Much better known as Christmas Cactus, it is one of the most demanded succulents when the end of the year approaches, since it is so cheerful that it brings a lot of joy to the home.
In addition, its maintenance is very simple, so much so that it can be had even inside the home every month.
Schlumbergera truncata is the scientific name of a species of epiphytic cactus endemic to Brazil, where it grows on trees or between rocks. It receives the common names of Christmas Cactus, Santa Teresita, Easter Cactus, Cigocacto, Thanksgiving Cactus, and of course Christmas Cactus.
It is characterized by having flattened green leaves, with slightly serrated margins. Flowers sprout from the top of each leaf throughout the yearespecially in winter. These are about 8cm long and can be pink, red or white.
If we talk about its cultivation, it is a plant that we could label as easy. We have to place it in a very bright room away from drafts, and water it no more than 3 times a week in summer and every 6 days the rest of the year. In the event that we live in an area without frost, we can have it outside protected from direct sun.
Every two years you will need a pot change, which has to be filled with substrate that drains well, such as black peat mixed with perlite in equal parts. Likewise, in order for it to produce a large quantity of flowers, it is very important to fertilize it with a liquid cactus fertilizer all year round, following the indications specified on the product's packaging.
Finally, if we want to multiply it, we can do it very simply: in spring, we will cut leaf segments and nail them in a pot with peat. They will take root very soon: after 15-20 days. Another way to get new specimens is by sowing their seeds, also in spring or summer, in a seedbed with vermiculite.