Pink | White Schlumbergera
Garden The PlantShare Way ®
~ All About Thanksgiving cactus ~
The Schlumbergera truncata, commonly known as the Christmas cactus, is a tropical succulent that brings bright winter color to homes when most plants are dormant. Understanding proper care will help you enjoy its striking blooms for years.
Unlike desert cacti, this species originates from the rainforests of Brazil. Schlumbergera truncata origin explains why it prefers more moisture and shade than typical succulents. In its natural habitat, it grows on trees and rocks under the forest canopy, where it receives filtered sunlight and high humidity.
For best results, place your plant in bright, indirect light, an east or north-facing window works well. Too much direct sun can burn the leaves, while too little light reduces flowering. Use a light, well-draining potting mix made for succulents or orchids. Keep the soil slightly moist but never soggy. Water when the top inch feels dry, and let excess water drain away completely.
Temperature and humidity are also key parts of Schlumbergera truncata care. It thrives between 60°F and 75°F. During fall, slightly cooler nights (around 55°F–60°F) help trigger blooms. You can feed it with a balanced, diluted fertilizer every two weeks from spring through summer, stopping once buds form.
Beyond its ornamental value, this plant is often treasured as a family heirloom passed down through generations. Its colorful winter blooms also make it a popular holiday centerpiece and gift plant.
As a companion plant, try Selaginella kraussiana underneath Schlumbergera truncata. This low-growing, moss-like plant thrives in the same humid, shaded conditions and creates a soft green groundcover beneath the arching stems of the Christmas cactus. Its fine texture and lush appearance offers contrast with the sleek, segmented foliage of Schlumbergera, helping create an indoor rainforest display. Because both plants enjoy evenly moist soil and indirect light, they can be grown together in larger containers, terrariums, or shaded indoor arrangements in climate zones 10a-12b with minimal extra care. Try this interesting pairing in a humid bathroom – fun!
Coming soon!
A mature Christmas cactus usually grows about 1 to 2 feet wide and 12 to 18 inches tall. With proper care, older plants can grow even larger, forming long, arching stems that hang beautifully from pots or baskets.
Yes, the Christmas cactus is a type of succulent. However, unlike desert cacti, it comes from tropical rainforests, so it prefers more humidity and regular watering. It stores water in its thick, flat stems but still needs moist, well-drained soil to stay healthy.
The Christmas cactus originates from the coastal mountains of southeastern Brazil. It grows naturally on trees and rocks in humid forests, where it gets filtered sunlight and steady moisture. This tropical background explains why it likes indirect light and higher humidity at home.
Another common name for the Christmas cactus is Schlumbergera truncata, which is its scientific name. It’s also sometimes called the Thanksgiving cactus or holiday cactus, depending on when it blooms. These names are often used interchangeably, though they refer to closely related species.
Last updated on Jul 02, 2026
Species suggested by: Dina Russell, 2020
Plant Profile compiled and written by: Team PlantShare
Contributors: Team PlantShare
Ask Us!
