Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera russelliana)

Christmas cactus

Also known as: Easter cactus

Endemic to a small area in Brazil, the christmas cactus can be found growing in trees. Its habitat is related to moist forests, but it is a popular houseplant. Often used for breeding, the christmas cactus is a parent of many Schlumbergera hybrids.

Scientific classification

Species

Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera russelliana)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Fall, Winter

Growth Season

Images of Christmas cactus

Culture

Interesting Facts

Legend has it that the immortal Christmas cactus used to be bright and soft. In order to protect it, God put on an armor of hard steel thorns. Every creature intending to hurt it would bleed.

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Quickly Identify Christmas cactus

Segmented stem segments serve as leaves for photosynthesis, 1.25-3.8 cm long.

Distinctive 'flower within a flower' structure with vibrant pink hues, 1.5-2 inches in size.

Yellow-green fruit with 4-5 pronounced ribs, small size fits palm, smooth texture.

Cladodes resemble leaves, 1-2 inches in length, serrated edges, lacking prominent veins.

Segmented, flattened green stems with crenate-serrate edges, capable of photosynthesis, 1/2-1 inch thick.

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Care Guide for Christmas cactus

Every 2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted to humid tropical rainforests, christmas cactus prefers consistently moist soil without waterlogging. Water every two weeks, as it tolerates moderate drought. As an epiphyte, it benefits from misting to enhance humidity, particularly during the growing season when indoor air is dry.

Fertilize: Christmas cactus thrives with fertilization during the growing season using diluted succulents and cacti food every 2-4 weeks in spring and summer, and every 6-8 weeks in fall. Avoid fertilization in winter and reduce strength to prevent burns, ensuring soil is moist prior to application.

Pruning: Christmas cactus needs minimal pruning. Regularly remove withered flowers and branches to optimize nutrient allocation for healthy growth.

Propagation: Christmas cactus is propagated through stem cuttings, about 2 to 3 inches long, with calloused ends placed in a moist medium (peat and perlite). Ensure a node is buried, keep the cutting stable, and provide indirect light and warmth while maintaining consistent moisture without overwatering.

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Common Pests & Diseases

Stem rot Mealybug Bud drop Soil fungus Wrinkled and twisted stem Mushrooms Dark blotch Stem drop Stem blotch Scale insect Scars stem discolorations Yellow blotch Stem wrinkling

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