Schlumbergera Holiday Cactus Types
Read MoreExplore our stunning varieties of Holiday cacti, known as Schlumbergera, which are popular during the holiday season due to their vibrant pink, white, purple, and red blooms. The most popular varieties are 'Christmas Cacti' (Schlumbergera bridgesii), and 'Thanksgiving Cacti' (Schlumbergera truncata). You can visit our article about Christmas cactus vs. Thanksgiving cactus. Schlumbergera Christmas cactus is an excellent option to add vibrancy and growth in cooler months when other houseplants go dormant. At the bottom of the page, discover and learn more about the Schlumbergera holiday cactus care and features in detail.
Schlumbergera Holiday Cacti Key Features
Here are some key features of different varieties of Schlumbergera plants:
- Schlumbergera plants have segmented stems, with Christmas cacti having notched, slightly rounded edges and Thanksgiving Cactus having pointed edges. These stems are where the flowers bloom from, adding to their unique and eye-catching appearance.
- The holiday cactus leaves are flat and segmented, similar to the stems. They are typically green in color and provide a lush backdrop for the vibrant flowers.
- The flowers of these Schlumbergera plants bloom from the tips of the segmented stems. The flowers come in various colors, including pink, white, red, and purple. These blossoms are a beautiful addition to any home, especially around the holidays, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Christmas and Thanksgiving cacti require a dry and cool environment before flowering in October and November. After flowering, they need a resting period until March.
- Schlumbergera plants are relatively low maintenance, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Holiday Cactus Care
When it comes to Schlumbergera cactus care, keep the following points in mind:
Quick Reference
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Sun Exposure
Toxicity
Watering Needs
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering your Schlumbergera plants, it's important to find the right balance. These lovely holiday cactus plants prefer moist but not soggy soil. You'll want to water them thoroughly, allowing the water to soak through the soil and drain out any excess. To determine when it's time to water your Holiday cactus, simply check the soil moisture level. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil, and if it feels dry, it's time to water. In the spring and summer, during the growing season, you'll want to water more frequently. But in the fall and winter, during the dormant period, you can reduce the frequency of watering. Just remember to always adjust your watering schedule based on the specific needs of your plant and the moisture level of the soil.
Light Requirements
If growing indoors, the holiday cacti generally prefer bright, indirect light. It's best to put them close to a window so they can get filtered sunlight. They should not be exposed to direct sunlight as this may scorch their leaves. If you notice that your Schlumbergera is reaching for light or its leaves are turning pale, it may be an indication that it needs more light. If the leaves are becoming yellow or brown, it could be a sign of too much direct sunlight.
For outdoor Holiday cactus Schlumbergera plants, they are best suited for shaded or partially shaded areas. They thrive in locations with filtered sunlight or dappled shade, such as under the canopy of trees or on a covered patio. If you live in a region with harsh winters, it's important to bring your outdoor holiday cacti indoors or provide them with adequate protection to prevent frost damage.
Optimal Soil & Fertilizer
When it comes to soil and fertilizer needs for holiday cacti, they prefer a
Hardiness Zone & More
The holiday cacti Schlumbergera plants are native to the tropical regions of Brazil, where they thrive in warm and humid conditions. As indoor plants, they generally prefer temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. It's important to keep them away from cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations, as they are sensitive to extreme cold.
For outdoor cultivation, in USDA zones 10-12, you may be able to grow them in your garden year-round in a shaded or partially shaded area. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F, but it's important to protect them from frost and extreme cold. In terms of humidity, they still appreciate higher humidity levels, so providing a slightly more humid microclimate around the plant can be beneficial.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Schlumbergera plants (holiday cacti) are popular indoor plants that add a touch of beauty and color to any space. These holiday cactus plants prefer well-draining soil, such as a cactus mix, and benefit from regular feeding during their active growth period with a diluted balanced fertilizer. They thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F and appreciate a humidity range of 40% to 60%. As tropical plants, they are best suited for indoor environments but can be grown outdoors in mild climates in USDA zones 10-12 if protected from frost and extreme cold. Be sure to add Schlumbergera holiday cactus for sale to your collection today and elevate the beauty of your home or garden, with this stunning-looking plant.
Additionally, you can visit our blog, which provides detailed information on the Christmas cactus vs. Thanksgiving cactus, with their unique characteristics, blooming periods, and care requirements, helping readers better understand these fascinating houseplants.
Other popular cactus genus types include Mammillaria, Rebutia, and Opuntia.