There is a beautiful legend about the origins of the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera russelliana). The story is said to be from Brazil, the Christmas cactus’ native land.
A young boy who lived in the jungle had prayed God to give him a little sign of Christmas in his hot and humid world. As Christmas approached, he prayed even more, but still nothing. On Christmas day, thought, he stepped out of his hut to realize that the jungle had filled with flowers overnight: cacti growing on the branches of the surrounding trees had all started to bloom at the same time. Moreover, with their weeping habit, they looked just like Christmas bells. And so another Christmas legend was born!
As charming as the legend may be, of course, it isn’t very likely. You see, Christmas cacti bloom when days are short and Brazil lies in the southern hemisphere, where the days are long at Christmas. Indeed, the Christmas cactus does light up Brazil’s coastal jungle when it blooms, but in May, not December. That’s why Brazlians commonly call our Christmas cactus flor de maio (May flower)!
Merry Christmas one and all!
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