Nyctocereus serpentinus 'Cristata'

Origin
The Nyctocereus serpentinus 'Cristata', also known as the Crested Night-blooming Cereus, is a unique type of cactus originating from Mexico. The natural habitat of this cactus is the dry, rocky areas in Mexican deserts. This cactus thrives best in a warm and poor soil, and is adapted to the extreme climatic conditions of its homeland.

Characteristics
A striking characteristic of the Nyctocereus serpentinus 'Cristata' is the peculiar shape of its stems, which grow wavy or spirally in an irregular way. The stems can vary in length from a few centimetres to several metres. This cactus only blooms sporadically and then only at night, with large white flowers that are visible for only a few hours. Despite its sparse blossoms, this plant can bear remarkably large fruits.

Care
The care of the Nyctocereus serpentinus 'Cristata' is relatively simple, given its adaptability to dry conditions. Although this cactus can tolerate full sun, it prefers partial shade to prevent burn. It is important to allow the soil to dry out well between watering, as overwatering can lead to rot. In the winter period, watering should be greatly reduced and a cool rest period is beneficial for growth.