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Description
Schlumbergera Truncata, commonly known as Christmas Cactus or Thanksgiving Cactus, is a popular houseplant that blooms in late fall or early winter. It is a member of the Cactaceae family and is native to the coastal mountains of Brazil. It is a low-maintenance plant that can add a splash of color to any home.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Schlumbergera |
Appearance
Schlumbergera Truncata has long, flattened stems that grow in a cascading manner. The stems are segmented and have small, spineless leaves that grow from them. The plant blooms in late fall or early winter, producing vibrant pink, red, white or purple flowers that emerge from the tips of the stems.
Care Guide
Schlumbergera Truncata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It requires regular watering, well-draining soil, and bright, indirect sunlight. It can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. It thrives in hardiness zones 10-11 and can be grown indoors in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Schlumbergera Truncata is susceptible to pests such as mealybugs and spider mites. Regular inspection and treatment with neem oil or insecticidal soap can help prevent infestations. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the stems to wilt. Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew can also affect the plant.
Habitat
Schlumbergera Truncata is native to the coastal mountains of Brazil, where it grows in rocky crevices and on trees. It thrives in well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Schlumbergera Truncata?
A: Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Q: Can I propagate my Schlumbergera Truncata?
A: Yes, Schlumbergera Truncata can be propagated from stem cuttings. Q: Why is my Schlumbergera Truncata not blooming?
A: Schlumbergera Truncata requires a period of darkness to initiate blooming. Ensure it receives 12-14 hours of darkness each day for at least six weeks before the desired blooming period.Q: Can Schlumbergera Truncata be grown outdoors?
A: Schlumbergera Truncata is best grown indoors in cooler climates, but it can be grown outdoors in hardiness zones 10-11.
Related Plants
- Schlumbergera Bridgesii
- Schlumbergera Orssichiana
- Schlumbergera Opuntioides
- Schlumbergera Russelianum
References
- “Schlumbergera truncata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287843&isprofile=1&basic=schlumbergera%20truncata. Accessed 9 Aug. 2021.
- “Christmas Cactus Care: How to Grow and Maintain Holiday Cacti.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/christmas-cactus/advice-for-christmas-cactus-care.htm. Accessed 9 Aug. 2021.
- “Schlumbergera truncata (Christmas Cactus).” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/schlumbergera-truncata. Accessed 9 Aug. 2021.
