The Schlumbergera cactus is one of the most cherished indoor plants, especially during the holiday season. Famous for its vibrant, tubular flowers that brighten homes in late fall and winter, this plant brings color when most others are dormant.
In this guide, you’ll learn about the different species of Schlumbergera, how to care for them, and what makes the popular Schlumbergera truncata — often called Thanksgiving cactus — a favorite.
What is a Schlumbergera Cactus?
The Schlumbergera cactus is a small genus of epiphytic cacti native to the coastal mountains of Brazil. Unlike desert cacti, Schlumbergeras grow in humid, forested areas where they cling to tree branches and absorb moisture from the air.
Schlumbergeras are known for their flattened, segmented stems and brilliantly colored blooms, which appear when the days grow shortest.
The two most commonly grown species in homes are:
- Schlumbergera truncata — Often called the Thanksgiving cactus– typically blooms in November.
- Schlumbergera bridgesii — Commonly called the true Christmas cactus, it tends to bloom closer to late December.
Both types are easy to grow, long-lived, and beloved for their cheerful winter flowers. Collectors sometimes grow them side by side to enjoy blooms for a longer season.
Why Choose a Schlumbergera?
Here are some reasons why the Schlumbergera cactus is such a popular houseplant:
- Brings vibrant color during the dreary winter months.
- Low-maintenance and forgiving, even for beginners.
- They can live for decades with proper care and are often passed down as heirloom plants.
- Flowers in various colors — pink, red, white, orange, and even purple.
- Adapts well to container growing and indoor conditions.
Whether you’re looking to brighten a windowsill or start a family tradition, the Schlumbergera is a fantastic choice.
How to Care for a Schlumbergera Cactus
Light
Place your Schlumbergera in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves, while too little light may reduce flowering.
Watering
Unlike desert cacti, Schlumbergeras prefer evenly moist (not soggy) soil during their growing and blooming periods. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during dormancy after flowering.
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend for succulents or a mix of peat, sand, and perlite. Schlumbergeras don’t like to sit in waterlogged soil.
Temperature and Humidity
These plants thrive between 60°F and 70°F (15–21°C). They also appreciate higher humidity than most cacti, so occasional misting can help, especially in dry indoor air.
Fertilizer
Feed monthly during the growing season (spring through early fall) with a balanced, diluted houseplant fertilizer. Stop fertilizing when the plant begins to set buds in fall.
Encouraging Blooms
To ensure your Schlumbergera truncata or other species blooms in time for the holidays:
- Give the plant at least 12–14 hours of darkness each night in fall for about 6 weeks.
- Keep it slightly cooler (around 55–65°F) during this period.
- Once buds appear, return to regular light and warmth to enjoy the flowers.
- Consistency is key — avoid moving the plant or exposing it to drafts during bud formation.
Common Problems and Solutions
- Buds dropping off: Usually due to sudden temperature changes or drafts. Keep conditions stable.
- Yellowing stems: Often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage.
- No flowers: Ensure the plant experienced a proper dark, cool rest period in the fall.
- Wrinkled segments: Can indicate underwatering or too much direct sun.
Propagation
Schlumbergeras are easy to propagate by stem cuttings:
- Twist off a segment of 2–3 leaf sections.
- Let it dry for a day or two.
- Place it in moist soil or water until roots develop.
- Plant in a small pot and care for it as usual.
This method ensures you can share your plant with friends or start new ones for different rooms.
Conclusion
With its colorful winter blooms and easy care, the Schlumbergera cactus remains one of the most rewarding houseplants you can grow. Its vibrant flowers bring winter cheer and pair nicely with unusual options like the lithops plant and trailing string of hearts.
Whether you have the vibrant Schlumbergera truncata or the classic Schlumbergera bridgesii, both will bring cheer to your home year after year.
If you’re curious about the botanical name for Christmas cactus, it refers specifically to Schlumbergera bridgesii, the variety that blooms closer to December.
It and the Thanksgiving cactus are delightful companions during the colder months, offering flowers when we need them most. With the proper care, a Schlumbergera can become a living tradition, blooming reliably for generations to come — a testament to how a little attention can bring years of beauty and joy to your home.