Schlumbergera

Family Cactaceae. Native to the humid forests of South America. People commonly know them by the example of the Decembrist. These are epiphytic cacti, or forest cacti. They usually bloom by Christmas, i.e. flowering occurs in January, which is why they are called Decembrists — buds form in December.

With age, Decembrists develop corking of the stem — it becomes somewhat woody, and the plants branch poorly. To prevent the plant from looking one-sided — which can happen when there are more segments on the illuminated side — the plant is periodically turned so different sides face the light source. Just do not disturb Decembrists during bud formation and flowering. The crown density is created by pinching and pruning — non-branching shoots are shortened. Most often buds appear on young shoots, so frequent pruning of the Decembrist promotes more abundant flowering.

Schlumbergera truncatus has sharp teeth along the edges of the leaf-like stem segments, and the flowers are bilaterally symmetrical with an oblique floral tube and reflexed petals, about 2.5 cm in diameter. Flower colors vary widely from white and pale pink to lilac and purple.

Schlumbergera bucklei has small, light-green segments with slight protrusions along the edges. It blooms with lilac-pink flowers that are radially symmetrical; flowering usually occurs from the end of October to November.



Temperature: Normal summer temperatures, preferably not above 25°C. From September to mid-November provide a resting period at 15–16°C, minimum 12°C. When buds form and during flowering (from November to the end of January) move to a warmer place — about 18–20°C. After the Schlumbergera finishes flowering, move it back to a cool place at 15–16°C.

Light: A bright location with light shade, but definitely protected from direct sunlight. It grows well on a north-facing windowsill.

Watering: From bud formation until the end of flowering water abundantly — the soil should remain moist. Then transplant the Decembrist and keep the soil moderately moist until about April. From April to September water as the soil dries. By September reduce watering and keep the plant in very cool and dry conditions for about two months.

Fertilization: Feed three weeks after repotting (after flowering ends) with a special balanced fertilizer for cacti, then every two weeks until September.

Air humidity: Regular misting and the occasional warm shower benefit Schlumbergeras.

Repotting: Repot the Decembrist after flowering — at the end of February. The planting container should be roomy but not deep. Soil — 1 part topsoil, 1 part leaf mold, 1 part peat soil, 1 part sand and brick grit. Good drainage is essential. You can use a commercial cactus potting mix.

Propagation: By cuttings consisting of 2–3 segments. Usually Decembrist cuttings root easily at any time of year. After cutting, allow cuttings to dry slightly and place them, not buried, on moist soil. You can cover them with a glass jar from above, remembering to ventilate periodically.