Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency during the dormant winter months, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.
Schlumbergera opuntioides, a Christmas cactus, features flattened, segmented stems and vibrant flowers, ideal for bright, indirect light indoors.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Avoid direct sun
Water when top soil is dry
50% intensity
Reduce in winter
Cactus/succulent mix
50% intensity
Average room temperature
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temps for flowering initiation
Indoor
50% intensity
Feed during growing season
50% intensity
Dilute and reduce in winter
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency during the dormant winter months, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.
Prune after flowering to shape the plant, remove leggy or damaged stems, and encourage bushier growth. Cut back stems just above a segment node. This also helps maintain a desirable size and promotes better flowering.
Propagate by taking stem cuttings in spring or early summer. Allow the cut end to callus over for a few days before planting in a well-draining potting mix. Keep lightly moist until roots form.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid water retention issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera opuntioides)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Schlumbergera |
| Species | Schlumbergera opuntioides |
Similar in genus Schlumbergera
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
