Native to the tropical regions of Brazil, the Schlumbergera plant is also known as the Christmas, Spring, or Holiday cactus. Schlumbergera plants have green, flattened, leaf-like segmented stems. These cacti have adapted to survive in arid conditions by storing water in their leaves, similar to other cacti. They are spineless, but do have soft, spiky hairs. These plants produce beautiful, colorful flowers that come in shades of red, pink, white, and yellow. Schlumbergera are non toxic to humans and pets.
Schlumbergera plants prefer bright, indirect light. During the cold months, it’s important to provide Schlumbergera plants with at least 12 to 14 hours of darkness each day in order to encourage blooming.
Water with filtered or rain water when soil is 85% dry. During the fall and winter months, when Schlumbergera plants are in their blooming period, it’s important to be cautious with watering. Too much water during this time can cause the plant to drop its buds. Allow soil to dry out 100% of the way before watering.
Keep your Schlumbergera in temperatures between 65-75°F with humidity between 40%- 60%. To induce blooming, expose to temperatures as low as 50 degrees at night.
Schlumbergera plants can be easily propagated by division. Once pups are a few inches tall, gently separate them from the parent plant using a sharp knife or scissors. Plant in well draining soil and place in a sunny spot!
