Gerald L. Klingaman
Family
Cactaceae
Botanical Name
Schlumbergera x buckleyi
Plant Common Name
Buckley's Christmas Cactus, Christmas Cactus, True Christmas Cactus
General Description
The appeal of this elegant spineless cactus cannot be overstated. Christmas cactus is the beloved wintertime bloomer that is widely cultivated as an indoor specimen or garden plant where hardy. It is a cross between two Brazilian species, Schlumbergera russelliana and S. truncata, which are both less vigorous and have fewer flowers.
Plants have a broad almost shrubby habit with flattened layered stems that are often pendulous. When large container-grown plants are in bloom the stems often hang so low they can entirely obscure the pot. The shooting star-like flowers are long and lined with layers of magenta petals that curve back. Sprays of magenta and white anthers extend from the center of each. The flowers appear in the winter months, often starting during winter solstice and continuing for as long as three months afterward.
Plants grow best in bright but indirect light. It is essential to ensure perfect drainage, so plant Buckley's Christmas cactus in a porous slightly acid cactus mixture. This cactus does prefer average water—though it is vital to allow the soil to become dry between watering. After flowering, it’s important to provide Christmas cactus with a cool dry environment for a month or two to ensure vigorous flowering the following year.
Often sold for holiday decoration, plants are long-lived, may survive for generations and grow almost woody at the base. They make outstanding gifts for the winter holidays.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 1
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Plant Type
Cactus or Succulent
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Sun Exposure
Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
18"-24" / 45.7cm - 61.0cm
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Width
28"-36" / 71.1cm - 91.4cm
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Native To
North America, Latin America and the Caribbean, Central America, South America
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color
Purple
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Green, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Green, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Green, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Green, Dark Green
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Fragrant Flowers
Yes
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Fragrant Fruit
Yes
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
No
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Glossy
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
