About

A cactus with erect stems that then become pendent-forming as a bushy, trailing plant with flattened and toothed, oblong stem segments. Flowers produced at the stem tips in autumn and winter are usually in shades of purple, pink or red.

About the genus

Schlumbergera are bushy epiphytic perennials with arching stems formed of flattened segments, and trumpet-shaped flowers

Growing conditions

SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeSand, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B

Plant details

Plant typeCactus Succulent, Houseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitTrailing
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants

Care notes

CultivationGrow in well-drained compost in bright light but avoid direct sunlight and maintain a minimum temperature of 10°C. See Schlumbergera cultivation for further information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by stem cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free