Gerald L. Klingaman
Family
Cactaceae
Botanical Name
Schlumbergera
Plant Common Name
Schlumbergera
General Description
Schlumbergera is a tropical genus that includes just 6 species of unique forest cacti best known to most as Christmas cacti. They are native to the jungles of southern Brazil where they grow as epiphytes or lithophytes, meaning they grow on trees or along rocky cliffs. Tree dwellers root in the branch spaces where organic matter accumulates. Their preferred growing environment is similar to that of many orchids.
These free branching, dark green succulents have flattened stems that are divided into many segments. Those of specimens often become long and pendulous. Very tiny spines are present in notches of the stem edges of some specie but absent in others. New stems arise from the tips of the new stems. The youngest, terminal stems produce symmetrical, day-blooming flowers when days are short, so Schlumbergera are winter blooming. Flower colors include vivid purple, pink, red, orange, yellow or white. The flowers may be pollinated by insects or hummingbirds, and the fruits that follow are small, round and of little ornamental value.
Schlumbergera species have been heavily hybridized because of their popularity as seasonal houseplants. Some of the better known species are , a pink-flowered cactus from the middle elevation cloud forests outside Rio de Janiero. Schlumbergera truncata, which produces bright red flowers, is also widely grown. The most popular Christmas cactus, Schlumbergera x buckleyi, is a hybrid cross between the two previously mentioned species. It's profuse, vivid blooms are a holiday time favorite.
In general, Schlumbergera species require bright indirect light or partial sun and organic-rich soil with good drainage, slightly acid to neutral pH and even moisture. It is important to allow the soil to become dry between watering. Average to high humidity and warm growing temperatures will also encourage good growth. Almost all Schlumbergera are container grown. Specimens can be brought outdoors in summer in areas where summers are moist and warm. This can encourage vigorous grown. After flowering in winter, provide plants a cool, dry growing environment for a month or two. This will ensure good flowering the following year.
Characteristics
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Plant Type
Cactus or Succulent
