Christmas Cactus
Schlumbergera truncata Origin: South America
Christmas “Cacti” are actually succulent shrubby perennials that bloom during the holiday season. The flowers, which usually appear once a year along their jagged, segmented leaf tips, look a lot like exotic birds when inspected closely.
Common Issues
Wilt: Thin, rubbery leaves are typically the result of improper watering. This phenomenon may be coupled with wrinkled leaves, a sign of extreme drought or root rot from excessive moisture.
Pale or reddish leaves: This is most often the result of too much sunlight. Though the red tint can be pretty, you may want to move your plant to a shadier spot to avoid sunburn.
Light: Bright indirect light is best, but these plants are pretty easy-going. In most homes, southern, eastern, or western exposures will suffice—just keep in mind, ample bright light will encourage flowering.
Water: These plants do best when allowed to dry out a bit between waterings. Touch the soil — if it doesn't feel damp until an inch or so down, go ahead and water again.
Humidity: This is a truly tropical succulent plant and thrives in high humidity. While its thick foliage can tolerate low humidity, it is stressful and can quickly lead to pest problems.
Growth: This ‘cactus’ will reach a maximum size of 2-3 feet tall and wide over time. Its segmented stems will arch and drape to create a low, mounding plant that often shrouds its container.
Soil: An average potting mix will suffice. Utilize a slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer, then allow the plant to ‘rest’ when the days shorten to encourage blooming.
Temperature: Temperatures between 60-85°F are ideal. These plants are relatively tolerant to cooler temperatures, and can withstand a drafty window, but it is not ideal.
Repotting: These plants are notoriously content with staying put. Most often, the time to repot will come when the developing foliage outweighs the rootball. Uppot gradually into a clay container no more than 4 inches larger than its existing pot.
Extra TLC:If you want your cactus to flower, it's important to give your plant natural light during the day and reduce the light as much as possible at night.