Christmas Cactus
Schlumbergera truncata · Cactaceae
- Light
- Medium to bright-indirect
- Water
- Moderate
- Humidity
- Average
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pet-safe
- Yes
- Propagation
- Stem Cuttings
Common problems: Root RotMealybugsFungus GnatsScale Insects
Quick facts
- Light: Medium to bright indirect · Water: When top inch dries slightly
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pet-safe: Yes
Description
A spineless forest cactus made of flattened jointed segments rather than true leaves. It is much less desert-like than people expect and usually does best when treated more like a tropical epiphyte than a blazing-sun cactus.
Care
- Light: Bright indirect is ideal; too much harsh sun can redden or scorch segments.
- Water: Water when the mix starts to dry, but do not keep bone dry for long.
- Soil & potting: Airy, fast-draining mix with bark or perlite works well.
- Humidity & temperature: Prefers average to slightly elevated humidity.
- Feeding: Light feeding in spring-summer.
- Repotting / propagation: Often blooms best when slightly pot-bound.
Propagation
Easy from segment cuttings. Let cut pieces callus briefly, then insert the base of a segment chain into slightly moist mix. See Propagation Basics.
Toxicity
Generally treated as pet-safe and widely listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Common ailments, afflictions & pests
Click any item for how to identify and treat it.
- Root Rot — from dense or overly wet soil.
- Mealybugs — sometimes hide at joints and around the crown.
- Fungus Gnats — tell you the potting mix is staying too wet.
- Scale Insects — occasional on older stems.
- Bud drop? Usually from abrupt changes in watering, temperature, or light.
See also: Diagnose a Problem.