Schlumbergera (Zygocactus) 'Purple Dancer' - The Heliotrope Christmas Cactus

The Christmas Cactus: A Burst of Heliotrope Blooms

Schlumbergera (Zygocactus) 'Purple Dancer' is a captivating Christmas Cactus cultivar that will infuse your home with vibrant colour thanks to its stunning heliotrope flowers. This easy-to-care-for succulent is a popular choice for bringing joy to any season, especially during the holidays.

Distinctive Features

• Stems: Flattened, segmented stems that resemble leaves. These stems are typically a deep green colour and have a waxy texture.
• Flowers: Produces a profusion of large, showy flowers in a vibrant heliotrope colour, a beautiful shade of purple. The flowers have a distinctive, multi-layered structure with elongated petals that create a graceful, dancing effect.
• Growth Habit: This Schlumbergera (Zygocactus) has a trailing growth habit, making it ideal for hanging baskets or placing on shelves where its stems can cascade gracefully.

Care Tips

• Light: Bright, indirect light is best. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch the stems. East- or west-facing windows are ideal.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the flowering period, keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
• Humidity: Average household humidity is fine for this Christmas Cactus. However, it will appreciate occasional misting, especially during dry periods.
• Temperature: Maintain comfortable room temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F). Avoid exposing this plant to cold draughts or temperatures below 10°C (50°F).
• Fertiliser: Use a balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Potting: Repot every 2-3 years as needed, using a well-draining potting mix formulated for cacti and succulents.

Additional Notes

• Schlumbergera (Zygocactus) 'Purple Dancer' is relatively easy to care for, making it a rewarding plant for both novice and experienced gardeners.
• To encourage flowering, provide the plant with cooler temperatures (around 15°C/59°F) and shorter days in the autumn.
• This Christmas Cactus can be propagated through stem cuttings, allowing you to easily share its beauty with others.