Schlumbergera, commonly referred to as Christmas cactus, is a genus of cacti that belongs to the family Cactaceae. It is native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte. The plant is named after Frederic Schlumberger, a French collector of cacti and succulents who contributed to presenting this plant to Europe in the 19th century.
The Schlumbergera is a popular houseplant, particularly throughout the holiday season when it produces sensational blossoms in tones of pink, red, and white. It is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for, making it a perfect choice for newbie gardeners.
One of the most distinguishing characteristics of Schlumbergera is its segmented stem, which is comprised of flattened, leaf-like structures. The stem segments are jointed, and they branch out to form a cascading, hanging plant. The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet in height and spread up to 2-3 feet in width, depending on the range.
Schlumbergera chooses an intense but indirect light, making it a perfect plant for offices and houses. It can endure low-light conditions, but will not prosper in direct sunlight. The plant prefers well-draining soil and ought to be watered regularly but not overwatered. It is also crucial to avoid exposing the plant to abrupt temperature changes, which can trigger the buds to drop.
In addition to its sensational blossoms, Schlumbergera is also known for its air-purifying homes. It can help eliminate hazardous contaminants from the air, making it an excellent choice for houses and offices with bad air quality.
There are a number of varieties of Schlumbergera readily available, including the Thanksgiving cactus and the Easter cactus. These plants are closely related to the Christmas cactus, and they are named after the time of year when they normally bloom.
In conclusion, Schlumbergera is a lovely and easy-to-care-for plant that is best for adding a touch of color and elegance to any home or office. Its sensational blossoms, air-purifying properties, and low-maintenance nature make it a popular option amongst plant enthusiasts. So, whether you are an experienced gardener or an amateur, consider adding a Schlumbergera to your collection.
Here are 12 Types Of Popular Schlumbergera Pictorial Guide:
- Schlumbergera Truncata
- Schlumbergera Russelliana
- Schlumbergera Gaertneri
- Schlumbergera Orssichiana
- Schlumbergera Kautskyi
- Schlumbergera Opuntioides
- Schlumbergera Microsphaerica
- Schlumbergera Exotica
- Schlumbergera Lutea
- Schlumbergera Buckleyi
- Schlumbergera Bridgesii
- Schlumbergera Rosea
- How To Grow And Care For Schlumbergera
- How To Propagate Schlumbergera
- Top 5 FAQ And Answer For Schlumbergera
- Top 10 Interesting Facts About Schlumbergera
Schlumbergera Truncata
Schlumbergera Truncata, likewise known as Thanksgiving cactus or crab cactus, is a type of cactus native to Brazil. Schlumbergera Truncata is simple to care for and can prosper in a range of lighting conditions, making it a fantastic option for beginner plant lovers.
Schlumbergera Russelliana
Schlumbergera Russelliana, likewise referred to as the Easter cactus, is a cactus species native to Brazil. It is a popular houseplant known for its stunning, colorful flowers that appear in the spring. Its stems are segmented and flat, with small, spiny protrusions, and it needs bright, indirect light and moderate watering to prosper.
Schlumbergera Gaertneri
Schlumbergera Gaertneri is a type of cactus that is native to the mountains of southeastern Brazil. It is commonly known as the Christmas cactus or Thanksgiving cactus due to its tendency to flower around these holidays.
Schlumbergera Orssichiana
Schlumbergera Orssichiana is a type of epiphytic cactus that is native to Brazil. It is commonly referred to as the Christmas cactus due to its tendency to bloom around the holiday season. This species has flat, segmented stems with toothed edges, and its flowers vary in color from pink to white. It is a popular houseplant, and with proper care, it can bloom for numerous weeks throughout the cold weather.
Schlumbergera Kautskyi
Schlumbergera Kautskyi, commonly called Kautsky’s Christmas cactus, is a type of cactus belonging to Brazil. It includes striking pink to red flowers that flower in the cold weather, making it a popular indoor plant throughout the holiday season. Its flat, segmented stems are simple to propagate, making it a great option for plant lovers.
Schlumbergera Opuntioides
Schlumbergera Opuntioides is a cactus species native to Brazil. It is also known as the Christmas cactus, thanks to its stunning and vibrant blooms that appear in cold weather. The plant has flat, segmented leaves that grow in a cascading way, and its flowers come in shades of pink, red, orange, and white. This type of cactus is simple to take care of and is often used as a houseplant.
Schlumbergera Microsphaerica
Schlumbergera Microsphaerica is a type of cactus known for its lively and gorgeous flowers that bloom during the winter season. It is a low-growing plant with flattened, segmented stems that resemble a crab’s claw. The flowers come in a series of colors, from bright pink and red to pale yellow and white. This species is native to Brazil and is a popular houseplant in many parts of the world.
It is reasonably easy to look after and can thrive in low-light conditions, making it a terrific option for indoor gardening.
Schlumbergera Exotica
Schlumbergera Exotica, likewise called the Exotic Christmas Cactus, is a tropical cactus plant with colorful, exotic blooms that typically flower in late fall or winter. Its distinct and striking flowers can be found in tones of pink, orange, red, and yellow, making it a popular houseplant during the holiday. This species is simple to look after and requires moderate watering and indirect light to grow.
Schlumbergera Lutea
Schlumbergera Lutea is a type of cactus known for its vibrant yellow flowers that bloom in the winter season. It is native to Brazil and is usually grown as a houseplant. The plant has flattened stems that are segmented and resemble a leaf-like structure. It is a low-maintenance plant and can grow in low-light conditions, making it ideal for indoor spaces.
Schlumbergera Buckleyi
Schlumbergera Buckleyi, likewise referred to as Buckley’s Christmas cactus is a popular houseplant known for its brilliant, snazzy flowers that flower in tones of pink, orange, and red throughout the winter season. It is a low-maintenance plant that is simple to look after and can thrive in a range of indoor environments.
Schlumbergera Bridgesii
Schlumbergera Bridgesii is a cactus commonly known as a Christmas cactus or Thanksgiving cactus, named after its blooming season. The Christmas cactus is a popular houseplant and is simple to care for, making it a great addition to any home.
Schlumbergera Rosea
Schlumbergera Rosea, likewise known as the rose-colored Christmas cactus, is a popular houseplant with flat, segmented leaves and lovely pink or rose-colored flowers that flower during the winter holiday. It is easy to care for, making it a perfect choice for newbies or anybody aiming to add a touch of color to their indoor space.
How To Grow And Care For Schlumbergera
Schlumbergera, commonly known as Christmas cactus or holiday cactus, is a popular houseplant that blooms in the winter months. Here are some tips for growing and caring for Schlumbergera:
- Light: Schlumbergera prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, so it’s best to place the plant in a north- or east-facing window.
- Watering: Water the plant when the leading inch of soil is dry. Make certain not to overwater, as this can trigger root rot.
- Humidity: Schlumbergera prefers high humidity. You can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or by using a humidifier.
- Temperature: Schlumbergera thrives in temperatures between 60 and 70 °F (15 and 21 °C). Keep the plant away from cold drafts and heat sources.
- Fertilizer: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Repotting: Schlumbergera should be repotted every two to three years. Use a well-draining soil mix, such as a cactus potting mix.
- Blooming: Schlumbergera blooms in the winter months. To encourage blooming, keep the plant in a cool room (around 50–55°F/10–13°C) for six weeks before the desired bloom time.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the beautiful blooms of Schlumbergera for years to come.
How To Propagate Schlumbergera
Schlumbergera, also known as Christmas cactus, can be propagated through stem cuttings. Here are the steps:
- Take a cutting: Cut a segment of a healthy stem, about 3–4 segments long.
- Let it dry: Leave the cutting to dry for a few hours so that the cut end can callus over.
- Pot the cutting: Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, about 1-2 inches deep.
- Water: Water the cutting sparingly, enough to keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged.
- Provide humidity: Cover the cutting with a plastic bag or place it in a clear container to create a humid environment.
- Wait for roots to form: After a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots. You can gently tug on the stem to check if it’s rooted.
- Remove the bag or container: Once the cutting has rooted, remove the bag or container and gradually acclimate the new plant to normal conditions.
- Care for the new plant: Continue to water the new plant sparingly and gradually increase the amount of light it receives as it grows.
Top 5 FAQ And Answer For Schlumbergera
Q: How often should I water my Schlumbergera?
A: Schlumbergera needs regular watering, but be careful not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. Water the plant once the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure that it is well-drained.
Q: How often does Schlumbergera bloom?
A: Schlumbergera typically blooms once a year during the fall or winter. If you want your plant to bloom, it needs to be exposed to cool temperatures and long nights in the fall.
Q: How do I fertilize my Schlumbergera?
A: Fertilize your Schlumbergera once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). You can reduce the frequency of fertilization during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Q: How do I propagate my Schlumbergera?
A: You can propagate your Schlumbergera by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer. Cut a stem into several segments and allow it to callus over for a few days. Then, plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist until it roots.
Q: How do I care for my Schlumbergera after it blooms?
A: After the plant blooms, remove any dead or faded flowers to encourage new growth. Reduce watering and stop fertilizing during the dormant period (fall and winter) and resume regular care in the spring.
Top 10 Interesting Facts About Schlumbergera
- Schlumbergera is a genus of cacti that includes around six species of flowering plants. They are native to the coastal mountains of southeastern Brazil.
- Schlumbergera is also known as Christmas cacti or holiday cacti because they typically bloom in late fall or early winter, around the holiday season.
- Unlike many cacti, Schlumbergera is epiphytic, meaning they grow on other plants rather than in soil. In the wild, they often grow on trees or rocks.
- Schlumbergera has flat, segmented stems that can grow up to 3 feet long. The stems are typically green but may be purplish or reddish.
- The flowers of Schlumbergera are large and showy, with petals that come in shades of pink, red, purple, white, and yellow. The flowers usually last for several weeks.
- Schlumbergera is a popular houseplant because they are easy to care for and can thrive in low-light conditions. They prefer well-draining soil and should be watered only when the soil is dry.
- There are many cultivars of Schlumbergera available, with different flower colors and shapes. Some popular cultivars include “Tricolor,” “White Christmas,” and “Gold Charm.”
- Schlumbergera can be propagated by stem cuttings. Simply cut a segment of the stem, let it dry for a few days, and then plant it in well-draining soil. During a few weeks, the cutting should begin to root.
- In addition to being popular houseplants, Schlumbergera is also grown commercially as cut flowers. They have often been used in holiday floral arrangements.
- The genus name Schlumbergera honors Frédéric Schlumberger, a French collector of cacti and succulents in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
