The rarest Christmas cactus is believed to be the Schlumbergera russelliana, specifically the small Ehler’s form. This particular variety is extremely hard to find and is highly sought after by succulent gardening enthusiasts. Its scarcity adds to its appeal, making it a prized addition to any collection.
The Schlumbergera russelliana, also known as the Christmas cactus or holiday cactus, is a beautiful and unique succulent that blooms during the holiday season, adding a festive touch to any home or garden. With its vibrant flowers in shades of pink, red, and white, it is a popular choice among plant lovers.
What sets the small Ehler’s form of Schlumbergera russelliana apart is its diminutive size. While most Christmas cacti can grow to be quite large, this particular variety stays compact, making it perfect for smaller spaces or for those who prefer more petite plants. Its small size adds to its rarity, as it is not commonly found in nurseries or garden centers.
Finding the small Ehler’s form of Schlumbergera russelliana can be a challenge. It is often only available through specialty succulent growers or collectors who have managed to propagate it. Online plant marketplaces or succulent enthusiast groups may be good places to start your search, but be prepared to invest time and effort into finding this rare gem.
In my personal experience, I have come across many varieties of Christmas cacti, but the small Ehler’s form of Schlumbergera russelliana has always eluded me. I have spent countless hours searching for it at various plant sales and nurseries, but it seems to be a plant that is truly hard to come by. This rarity only adds to its allure, making it a prized possession for those lucky enough to find it.
If you are fortunate enough to acquire a small Ehler’s form of Schlumbergera russelliana, there are a few key care tips to keep in mind. Like other Christmas cacti, it prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, and avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. During the growing season, you can fertilize the plant with a balanced cactus or succulent fertilizer to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
The small Ehler’s form of Schlumbergera russelliana stands out as the rarest Christmas cactus. Its compact size and scarcity make it highly sought after by succulent enthusiasts. While finding this elusive plant may be a challenge, the reward of adding such a rare gem to your collection is well worth the effort. Happy hunting!
