Rebutias, the happiest cacti

Rebutia marsoneri

The cacti flowers are a real wonder. They have very bright colors and it is difficult to find one that you do not like. Despite being open for a short time, two days at the most, it is always a pleasure for the eyes to be able to contemplate them, especially if they are Rebutias.

These plants are ideal to have in pots, as they do not exceed 7cm in height or 40cm in diameter. In addition, they do not require much care, so if you are looking for small species to decorate the terrace or patio that produce very cheerful flowers, discover these wonderful cacti.

Characteristics of the Rebutias

Sulcorebutia krugerae var. krugerae

Our protagonist is originally from Bolivia and northern Argentina. The genus, Rebutia, has a synonym that is still widely used today and that of Sulcorebutia. It has a shape between spherical and columnar and usually forms groups of several specimens.. The stems are fleshy, of different shades of green or lilac, usually protected by numerous short thorns.

The flowers, which sprout from the areolas in summer, can be pink, orange, yellow or red. Plants obtained from seed flower early, at 2-3 years.

How do you take care of yourself?

Rebutia nigricans

If you want to have one or more copies, then we will tell you how they are cared for:

• Location: place your cactus in a sunny exhibition, but without the strong afternoon sun. You can have it in a room where a lot of light enters, but protected from drafts.
• Substratum: it is important that it has very good drainage. You can use sandy substrates, such as akadama or river sand, or mix black peat mixed with perlite in equal parts.
• Irrigation: moderate in summer, somewhat scarcer the rest of the year. The frequency will depend on the weather and the location, but in general it should be watered two or three times a week in the warmer months, and four times a month the rest of the year. In winter, you have to water very little, once a month.
• Subscriber: highly recommended to add a small spoonful of Nitrofoska once every 15 days in spring and summer. You can also use liquid fertilizer for cacti, following the indications specified on the package.
• Transplant: every two years, in spring.
• Multiplication: by seeds in spring-summer, and by separation of suckers in summer.
• Rusticity: it supports well the cold down to -3ºC, but it must be protected from hail.

Sulcorebutia 'Roberto Vasquezi »

Enjoy your cactus 🙂.