P(l)antonesA Botanical Collection of Colors

362 C

Schlumbergera

Thanksgiving Cactus

Schlumbergera

Light: Indirect Sun

Water: Once Every 2 Weeks

Soil Preference: Average (Normal Potting Soil)

Nickname(s): Holiday Cactus, Crab Cactus


Geographical Origin

Found in the coastal mountains of south-eastern Brazil.

Fun Facts

It is one of three common holiday cacti that are often confused with one another: the Thanksgiving cactus, the Christmas cactus, and the Easter cactus. While they all look similar, they are technically three different species of Schlumbergera with unique care requirements.

In its natural environment, the Thanksgiving cactus grows from trees, surviving off of the decaying organic matter from the bark. This means that when it is grown as a houseplant, the Thanksgiving cactus should be grown in a potting mix that is humus-rich, airy, and well-draining with an acidic pH. One part peat moss, one part perlite, and one part orchid barkis a perfect mixture for the Thanksgiving cactus.