Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during the plant's dormant period in late autumn and winter to encourage flowering.
Also known as Christmas Cactus · Crab Cactus · Russell's Christmas Cactus
Schlumbergera russelliana, a species of Christmas cactus, features segmented stems and delicate pink to magenta flowers that bloom in winter.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light is ideal.
75% intensity
Avoid direct, harsh sunlight which can scorch the leaves. Some direct morning sun is tolerated.
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
50% intensity
Well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Average room temperatures are suitable.
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temperatures (15-21°C) during its rest period to promote blooming.
Indoor, Outdoor
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season.
50% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength monthly from spring to summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
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 to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during the plant's dormant period in late autumn and winter to encourage flowering.
Prune immediately after flowering to shape the plant and remove any leggy or damaged stems. This encourages bushier growth and helps maintain a desirable form.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make cuts just above a leaf segment.
Propagate from stem cuttings taken after flowering. Allow cuttings to callus for a day or two before inserting them into a well-draining potting mix.
Keep the soil lightly moist and place in a warm, bright location to root.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, typically in early spring before new growth begins. Use a slightly larger pot with a well-draining, cactus or succulent potting mix.
Avoid overpotting; the new pot should only be slightly bigger than the old one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Schlumbergera Russelliana (Schlumbergera russelliana)
Where Schlumbergera Russelliana (Schlumbergera russelliana) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Schlumbergera |
| Species | Schlumbergera truncata |
Similar in genus Schlumbergera
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data