Pictura via asepsis-kenya
Basic Info
Schlumbergera truncata ‘Christmas Cactus’ is a holiday cactus. As the plant matures you can expect it to reach up to around 30 cm (12″) tall and about 30 cm (12″) in diamter. The plants main feature are the strange looking green to dark green flat leaves. When it finally flowers expect pinkish flowers.
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Rhipsalideae
Genus: Schlumbergera
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
Schlumbergera truncata ‘Christmas Cactus’ can be quite beautiful when it is well-taken care off. This succulent type needs typical watering as the other succulents. However, avoid watering every day like it is a normal houseplant. The watering method is very important to keep your succulent healthy. It should not sit on the water, and an excess amount of water should be avoided. The best way of watering is soak and dry method this succulent. Yet, the succulent should be controlled to avoid overwatering.
General Care for Schlumbergera truncata ‘Christmas Cactus’
This succulent type is a commonly owned succulent because it is very easy to take care of rare.
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Quick Facts:
- Prefers partial shade
- Can be grown indoors
- Grows 30 cm (12″) tall
- Grows up to 30 cm (12″) wide
- Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
- Does not handle cold well
- Prefers Zone 11a -4.4 °C (40 F)
- Best propagated by cuttings
- Generally not known to be harmful to people or animals
- Grows best during winter
Where to Plant
Schlumbergera truncata ‘Christmas Cactus’ succulents do not need strong light. You can place it on a windowsill. Where the plant is located is important for its health.
This type of succulent prefers a warm climate. It can survive at zone 10a which is around -1.1 °C (30 °F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant succulent in an indoor environment. As long as it gets enough sunlight, the plant will grow happily.
How to Propagate Schlumbergera truncata ‘Christmas Cactus’
Christmas Cactus can be propagated by cuttings. This succulent type does not require repotting often. Of course, the first-time repotting is essential when it is bought from the store.
Like all the other succulent types, a well-drained soil mixture is essential. If you want to know about well-drained soil mixtures, check How to Prepare Well-drained Soil for Succulent Plants.
How to Propagate Schlumbergera truncata ‘Christmas Cactus’ From Cuttings
When propagating this cactus from cuttings, cut a leaf from the mother plant carefully with a clean knife or scissors. Before replanting, wait for a few days to allow it to callous. Use well-draining soil for your new succulent plant. Don’t forget to water when the soil dries out.
Origin and Habitat
Schlumbergera truncata ‘Christmas Cactus’ is a tropical plant that likes humidity and it is native to Brazil.
