Christmas Cactus Schlumbergera russelliana

Christmas cactus is a species of succulent epiphytes that is a member of the cactus family (Cactaceae). It is native to coastal mountains in Southeastern Brazil and usually grows in trees or on rocks in the rain forests. It has leafless green stems which act as leaves to photosynthesize. This plant was introduced in England in 1839, and the specific epithet, russelliana, honors a British politician and plant collector, John Russell, the 6th Duke of Bedford.

The Christmas cactus prefers bright indirect light, and well-drained mixture of peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand or loam. Water the plant only when the top 1 inch of the soil feels dry, but do not overwater. They will do best if given time outdoors in the summer through fall. The shorter cooler days of fall will help induce flower budding. They prefer humidity of 50 to 60% and moderate temperatures between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Provide good air circulation, and avoid cold drafts, freezing temperatures, and direct sunlight. It may be propagated by stem cuttings.

The green stems are composed of flattened segments with teardrop, scalloped margins and vary in length from 0.5 to 1.5 inches long and 0.5 to 0.75 inches wide. A few notches occur along the edges of the segments. Areoles with 1 or 2 bristles appear at the notches and at the ends of stems where the flower buds appear. The showy flowers point downward and are tubular-shaped, measuring up to 2 inches long and 1.6 inches wide, and are fuchsia pink and have many stamens. They have the appearance of a "flower in a flower." Blooming typically occurs in the late fall or winter. The fruits are green, spherical, and ribbed and contain dark brown seeds.

Most of the plants sold in stores today are the sterile hybrids (S. x buckleyi) of Christmas cactus (S. russelliana) and Thanksgiving cactus (S. truncata). There are over 200 cultivars of these plants giving a variety of flower colors.

The Christmas cactus is a popular houseplant and can thrive for many years. Its striking blooms will brighten your home for the holidays.

Quick ID Hints:

• Green stems that are flattened segments with teardrop or scalloped margins
• Few notches occur along the edges with areoles containing 1 or 2 bristles at the notches and at the end of the stems
• Tubular-shaped flowers, up to 2 inches long with purplish-brown anthers
• Green spherical, ribbed fruits

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Monitor for pests such as mealybugs and scale. Potential diseases include fungal infections such as gray mold and powdery mildew, and root rot from overwatering.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti", a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Schlumbergera.