Christmas Cactus
Schlumbergera x buckleyi
This Brazilian epiphytic cactus transforms from an attractive houseplant into a spectacular flowering display, producing cascades of vibrant tubular blooms during the holiday season. Unlike desert cacti, it prefers consistent moisture and indirect light, making it an ideal long-lived indoor companion that can bloom for decades.
Harvest
N/Ad
Days to harvest
Sun
Bright indirect light
Zones
9–11
USDA hardiness
Height
0-3 feet
Complete Growing Guide
Soil: Sand. Soil pH: Acid (<6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Moist, Occasionally Dry. Height: 0 ft. 6 in. - 3 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 1 ft. 0 in. - 3 ft. 0 in.. Spacing: 12 inches-3 feet. Propagation: Root Cutting, Stem Cutting.
Harvesting
Bloom time: Spring, Winter
History & Origin
Origin: Southeast Brazil
Advantages
- +Disease resistance: Drought, Dry Soil, Humidity
- +Attracts: Attractive Flowers, Attracts Pollinators, Wildlife Food Source
- +Wildlife value: The nectar attracts hummingbirds, and the fruits are eaten by birds.
Companion Plants
Plant Together
Snake Plant
Similar water requirements and both thrive in bright, indirect light
Pothos
Compatible humidity needs and both prefer consistent moisture without waterlogging
ZZ Plant
Similar low-maintenance care requirements and tolerance for lower light conditions
Peace Lily
Both prefer indirect light and help maintain beneficial humidity levels for each other
Philodendron
Compatible watering schedules and both benefit from similar room temperatures
Spider Plant
Both are non-toxic houseplants with similar light and humidity preferences
Rubber Plant
Similar preference for bright, indirect light and consistent but not excessive watering
Boston Fern
Creates beneficial humidity microclimate and shares preference for indirect light
Keep Apart
Jade Plant
Requires much less water and different soil drainage, leading to overwatering issues
Aloe Vera
Needs significantly less water and more direct sunlight than Christmas Cactus
Barrel Cactus
Requires desert-like conditions with minimal water, opposite of Christmas Cactus needs
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Generally resistant when grown in proper conditions
Common Pests
Mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites, fungus gnats
Diseases
Root rot, stem rot, botrytis blight in overly wet conditions