Looking for a delightful holiday plant that outshines even the classic poinsettias? Look no further than the Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera buckleyi. With its vibrant tubular flowers in shades of pink and lilac, this long-lasting succulent blooms during winter, making it a perfect festive addition. But here’s the best part: it’s not just a one-time wonder. This low-maintenance houseplant is a breeze to nurture and can live for years with proper care. This charming plant is pet-friendly too.
Source: Pinterest (Matt Mattus)
Christmas cactus: Key facts
| Name | Schlumbergera×buckleyi |
| Common names | Christmas cactus, holiday cactus, crab cactus |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Origin | South America |
| Soil | Moist, well-drained, loamy |
| Temperature | 65-75°F or 18-24°C |
| Sunlight | Partially shade or diffused sunlight |
| Flowers | Orange, pink, purple, red, white, yellow |
| Plant type | Houseplant |
Christmas Cactus: Physical description
The Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera spp) is a tropical succulent plant with flattened, segmented stems with deep green colour. The stems are composed of oval-shaped leaf-like structures. During the holiday season, it produces vibrant and pendulous flowers in shades of pink, red, white, or purple, which add a cheerful touch to any indoor space. Its cascading growth habit and smooth, glossy texture make it an appealing and popular choice for holiday decorations. It blooms during winter, adding a festive touch to any indoor space.
Christmas cactus: How to grow?
Harvesting the seeds
- Collect cactus seeds from ripe pods that have turned red in the fall.
- Extract the brownish-black seeds, remove any pulp, and gently wash them.
Planting the seeds
- Choose a planting mix like moist sphagnum peat moss, vermiculite, loamy compost, or cactus mix.
- Insert the seeds into the soil without covering them, or lightly sprinkle a thin layer of vermiculite on top.
- Create a humid environment by covering the pot with clear plastic wrap or placing it in a plastic bag.
Providing optimal growing conditions
- Place the pot on a bright window sill with indirect sunlight.
- Keep the growing medium moist by spraying the soil surface with water daily or watering from the bottom using a tray.
- Once the soil surface is moist, remove the pot from the water tray.
- Within two or three weeks, you should see it emerging. Removing the plastic covering at this stage.
Transplanting the seedlings
- Transplant the seedlings into separate pots once they are large enough to handle.
- Christmas cacti prefer to be rootbound, so rebooting every three to four years is usually sufficient.
- Wait until winter or early spring, after blooming ends, and the flowers have wilted, to re-pot the cactus.
Selecting the right pot and soil
- Opt for a pot with a drainage hole to prevent overwatering.
- Choose a well-drained potting mix designed for succulents to ensure proper soil moisture.
Placement and lighting
- Place your Christmas cactus in a sunny, indirectly lit location.
- An east-facing window or a well-lit bathroom works well.
- Avoid excessive direct sunlight, as it can bleach the leaves.
Temperature and humidity
- Aim for a daytime temperature of around 70°F or 21°C and an evening temperature of 60-65°F or 15-18°C.
- Christmas cacti appreciate a more humid environment, so a bright bathroom or kitchen is ideal.
Source: Pinterest (Among the Lilacs | Garden Ideas)
Christmas cactus: Care tips
- Place in bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
- Water when the top inch of soil is dry, but avoid overwatering.
- Maintain moderate room temperatures (around 65-75°F or 18-24°C).
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
- Provide high humidity by misting the leaves or keeping the pot on a tray of pebbles and water.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot—ensure proper drainage.
- Fertilise monthly during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Allow your Christmas cactus to experience a cool, dark period for about 6-8 weeks to encourage blooming.
- Keep them away from direct sunlight until temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
- During summer, you can move your Christmas cactus to a shady spot in the garden or an unheated porch.
- Prune after blooming to shape and encourage new growth.
- Re-pot your Christmas cactus every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth.
- Watch for pests like spider mites and treat them promptly if spotted.
Christmas cactus: Benefits
Several benefits of Christmas cacti are known. The following are a few of them:
- Christmas cactus adds festive charm to your home during the holiday season.
- It is easy to care for, making it an ideal low-maintenance houseplant.
- Known for its stunning and colourful blooms that last for weeks.
- Helps purify indoor air by removing pollutants and toxins.
- It can be passed down through generations, making it a cherished family plant.
- Its unique appearance and growth pattern make it a conversation starter.
- It is non-toxic to pets, making it a safe choice for pet owners.
- Blooms during winter bring joy and colour to colder months.
- It may improve indoor humidity levels, benefiting respiratory health.
Christmas cactus: Toxicity
The Christmas cactus is generally considered safe and non-toxic to humans and pets. Its leaves and flowers are not known to contain any harmful substances. However, some people may face mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as vomiting or diarrhoea, after consumption of this plant. But severe poisoning is unlikely.
FAQs
How do I care for a Christmas cactus?
Christmas cacti prefer bright but indirect light, moderate humidity, and well-draining soil. They should be watered when the soil's top inch dries and fertilises during the growing season. They also require a period of cool temperatures and reduced watering in the fall to initiate blooming.
Can I keep my Christmas cactus blooming for longer?
Yes, you can prolong the blooming period of a Christmas cactus by providing it with proper care. Ensure it receives adequate light, water, and cool temperatures. Avoid sudden changes in temperature or light conditions, as this can cause bud drop.
Why isn't my Christmas cactus blooming?
Several factors prevent a Christmas cactus from blooming, such as insufficient light, improper temperature, overwatering, or lack of a cool period in the fall. Assess the care you're providing and make adjustments accordingly.
Can I display my Christmas cactus outdoors?
Christmas cacti are typically grown indoors as houseplants. While they can tolerate some outdoor conditions, they prefer a stable indoor environment. If you move your Christmas cactus outside, protect it from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
How long do Christmas cacti live?
With proper care, Christmas cacti can live for several decades. Some well-maintained plants have been known to grow for over 50 years.
Can I force my Christmas cactus to bloom at a specific time?
Yes, you can manipulate the blooming time of a Christmas cactus by adjusting its light exposure and temperature conditions. Give the plant 12-14 hours of darkness each night for about six weeks before the desired bloom time to force blooming for the holiday season.
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