Scientific name: Schlumbergera truncata
Common name: Christmas Cactus, Thanksgiving Cactus, Holiday Cactus
The season in which this cactus blooms is between November to January. Depending on the variety of flowers, they can be pink, red, or white.
Quick Look at Schlumbergera truncata
- Partial shade
- Typical water needs for a succulent
- Plant grows up to 12″ (30 cm) tall
Plant grows up to 12″ (30 cm) wide - Zone 11a (Minimum 40° F | 4.4° C)
- Not cold hardy
- Propagation by cuttings
- Generally non-toxic to humans and animals
- Winter Dormant
General Care for Schlumbergera truncata “Christmas Cactus”
It is easy to care for Schlumbergera truncata, which is one of the reasons it is popular. There are a few crucial steps that new succulent owners neglect, which can lead to Christmas cactus not thriving as well as it could.
Watering
Many new owners of Christmas cacti flood their plant with water every day or two, treating it like a houseplant. The “soak and dry” method will allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Soil
It’s important to replace the original soil of your Schlumbergera truncata. The Christmas cactus is usually planted in the same nursery soil as other plants, but it needs a well-draining soil.
Where to Plant
The Schlumbergera truncata thrives indoors. It is perfect for a windowsill. If you live in a zone that gets colder than 30 F, it’s best to plant this plant in a container that can be brought indoors.
How to Propagate Schlumbergera truncata “Christmas Cactus”
It is perfect to give away Christmas cacti because they are easy to grow.
Cuttings
A sterile knife or pair of scissors is needed to grow Schlumbergera truncata. Cut a section from the main plant that has two or three segments and allow it to callous for several days before placing it on well-draining soil. Water whenever the soil has dried out.
Repotting
The Christmas cactus can sit in the same pot for several years, and it does not need to be repot as often as other cacti.
Flowering
If you want your Christmas cactus to bloom, place it in an area with good humidity and light, as well as over 12 hours of darkness. After the flower buds have developed, your cactus can be exposed to more light.
