Holiday Cactus
Schlumbergera spp.
Also known as
Mayflower, Christmas Cactus, Easter Cactus
Partial Shade
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
H2-H1c
RHS hardiness
1°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
40cm | Max | 1m |
20cm | Min | 50cm |
10 years to reach maturity
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images of Holiday Cactus
Holiday Cactus Overview
The genus Schlumbergera consists of 9 species of bushy, perennial cacti. They produce showy, colourful flowers with different lengths of petals from the tips of the stems. These may be red, pink, orange, yellow, white or some shade in-between. As such, they provide a wonderful Christmas display and are an ideal Christmas gift. The plant is often grown as a houseplant in a well-lit spot out of direct sunlight, ideally with some humidity. These epiphytic species grow without the need of soil substrate on coastal rocks and trees around Mexico. The humidity can be improved by placing plants on stone or pebble trays filled with water.
Common problems with Holiday Cactus
Pest and disease free with only mealybug being a common pest. Flower bud dropping is usually cause by fluctuating temperatures. Too hot by day too cold by night. However, overwatering can also cause flower buds to drop.
How to propagate Holiday Cactus
Cuttings
Take stem segments in spring and place upright in moist compost, sand and perlite mix. Push the bottom of the cutting into the soil about 1cm or just deep enough to keep them upright.
Special features of Holiday Cactus
Indoor plant
A houseplant that makes a great addition to nearly any indoor setting. Make sure they do get a night rest without light though to ensure flowers forming.
Drought resistant
Fleshy stems store water for drier times, and flower formation depends on a dry time!
Pot plant
A good container plant – if properly repotted, it can be passed on from generation to generation.
Attractive flowers
Attractive leaves
Other uses of Holiday Cactus
Cultivated for their flowers.
.jpg){kind=link}
