Scientific Name
Schlumbergera opuntioides (Loefgr. & Dusén) D.R.Hunt
Synonym(s)
Epiphyllanthus obovatus, Epiphyllanthus opuntioides, Epiphyllum obovatum, Epiphyllum opuntioides, Zygocactus opuntioides
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Rhipsalideae
Genus: Schlumbergera
Origin
Schlumbergera opuntioides is endemic to the coastal mountains of south-eastern Brazil (São Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Rio de Janeiro). It occurs in humid forests and rocky areas at elevations from 5,600 to 7,900 feet (1,700 to 2,400 m), growing on trees or rocks.
Description
Schlumbergera opuntioides is a shrubby cactus with green, leafless stems of distinct segments with areoles that usually bear bristles that become stiffer with age. It can grow up to 4 feet (1.2 m) tall. The stems look like those of Opuntias, hence the specific epithet. At first, the stem segments are succulent and relatively flat, measuring up to 2.8 inches (7 cm) long, 1.2 inches (3 cm) wide, and 0.4 inches (1 cm) thick. They become woodier and more cylindrical as they age.
The flowers are pink to purple and appear in spring. They can reach up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) in length and 1.8 inches (4.5 cm) in diameter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10b to 11b: from 35 °F (+1.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
These plants are easy to grow and are often passed down through the generations. With Holiday Cactus, the million-dollar question isn't how to grow it but how to make it bloom. With a little extra attention during the fall months, you can have your plants blooming for the holidays. Don't expose these plants to freezing temperatures! Despite their love of cooler temperatures, they are still tropical plants that won't withstand freezing conditions. They like about 50% to 60% humidity, which can be achieved using a pebble tray. Never place your Holiday Cactus near a heat register, exterior door, or drafty window; keep it out of burning sunlight.
Don't fall into the trap of constantly repotting into a bigger pot. Holiday Cactus likes to be root-bound, and repotting every 2 to 3 years (even back into the same pot) is plenty. If you repot, use sterile, well-draining potting soil.
Holiday Cactus can easily be propagated by cuttings. First, pinch off a section that has 2 to 3 jointed segments. Let the cuttings dry for a few hours, then push them into a small pot with the same potting soil as the adult plant.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for a Holiday Cactus.
Links
- Back to genus Schlumbergera
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
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