Schlumbergera (Christmas cactus): Flowering evergreen cactus
Schlumbergera Christmas cactus in a wide range of colours
The Schlumbergera, more commonly referred to as the Christmas cactus, is actually a flowering succulent. The plant is native to Brazil, where it grows on tree trunks. It produces a stunning display of red, white, pink, purple or orange flowers during the winter.
We grow the Schlumbergera in various pot sizes
Our ‘Schlumbergera mini’ (7 cm) grows into a mature plant with buds in 6 months, while our ‘Schlumbergera maxi’ (17 cm) takes no less than 14 months. When the plant has finished flowering, you can still enjoy it as a green plant. And some good care will work wonders; each autumn, the Christmas cactus will surprise you again with more colourful blooms.
Interested in adding our Christmas cacti to your range?
Our Christmas cactus varieties and colour range
Our Christmas cacti come in a range of colours to brighten up any interior. From classic red blooms to soft pastel pinks – each colour has its own unique charm.
Our range includes the Red Christmas cactus, a popular choice with deep red flowers. The White Christmas cactus has pure white petals that bring a sense of calm. Looking for something cheerful? The Pink Christmas cactus has soft pastel hues, while the Purple Christmas cactus adds a vibrant flash of colour. The Orange Christmas cactus brings warmth and a bold touch to any room.
Browse the colours and varieties below. The photos give a clear idea of what to expect – there's a Schlumbergera for every taste and style.
Care tips for the Christmas cactus
Prefers to be kept indoors
Partial shade is fine
Remove faded flowers
A temperature of around 18 ° C is ideal
Water normally, and keep the potting soil moist
Give fertiliser once a month
Not suitable for consumption
Caring for the Christmas cactus: Maintenance and feeding
The Christmas cactus is a relatively easy plant to look after, but with the right care and attention, you can enjoy a fresh blaze of colourful blooms every single year. It’s important to remember that the Christmas cactus originates from the tropical forests of Brazil, where it grows in the shadows of the trees. As a result, it likes bright – but not direct – sunlight.
- Watering: Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering. In the summer, the plant will need a little more water; water around once a week. In the winter, when growth is dormant, you can scale watering back to once a fortnight. The plant will not thrive if the roots are left sitting in water.
- Feeding: During the growing period, from spring to summer, give the Christmas cactus a little plant food once a month. Use a plant food that is suitable for flowing houseplants. There’s no need to feed during autumn and winter.
- Twisting: Once the plant has finished blooming, you can keep the Christmas cactus in shape by carefully twisting off the ends of the stems. Don’t use shears; just twist them off by hand. This stimulates new growth and produces a fuller plant. Alternatively, you can leave the small new leaves in place to let the plant grow longer. Over time, this will give it more of a trailing or hanging plant look.
- Encouraging flowering: Want your Christmas cactus to bloom beautifully? Make sure the plant spends at least 10 hours a day in a dark room or shaded spot in your home. Keep the soil slightly moist during this period. Once the buds become visible, you can move the plant to a brighter location.
Frequently asked questions about the Schlumbergera (Christmas cactus)
Can the Christmas cactus be grown outdoors?
The Schlumbergera is a tropical plant that does best when kept indoors. It can be placed outside in the summer, but you should always choose a protected, partially shaded location to prevent the leaves from burning. The plant should be brought indoors before the temperature drops below 12 degrees.
How large can a Christmas cactus grow?
A healthy Christmas cactus can grow up to 30-40 cm tall and wide. However, this will vary depending on the variety and the conditions in which the plant is kept. Sometimes, a Christmas cactus doesn’t grow tall but the stems grow long and drop down, like with a hanging plant; the Christmas cactus grows ‘fuller’ rather than taller.
What colour flowers can I expect to see on my Christmas cactus?
Schlumbergeras bloom in a vast array of colours, including white, red, pink, orange, yellow and sometimes purple, depending on the type and variety of the plant.
When does a Christmas cactus flower?
The Christmas cactus flowers from around the end of September (week 39) to the end of February/beginning of March (week 10). The plant flowers when the days are short. Schlumbergeras like the light, so should ideally be kept on (or near) a windowsill to establish a natural daylight rhythm.
Between flowering seasons, the Christmas cactus is an evergreen plant. The flower buds naturally fall off the plant after flowering.
How should I care for my Christmas cactus during flowering?
To promote flowering, reduce watering and keep the plant in a cool, well-lit room with no direct sunlight. Avoid moving the plant, as this can interrupt the flowering process.
How often should I water my Christmas cactus?
The water requirements of the Schlumbergera can vary, but generally you should let the soil dry out slightly before watering again (without letting it dry out completely). In the summer, you should water around once a week, and in the winter around once a fortnight.
What is the Christmas cactus known for?
The Christmas cactus is known for its uniquely shaped leaves and vivid flowers that stand out against the flat green foliage. The Christmas cactus is also famous for being a ‘generational plant’, which means that it can live for decades.
Expand your range with our premium Schlumbergera plants
Are you interested in adding our high-quality, popular plants to your range? Our premium Schlumbergera plants are the perfect complement to your existing portfolio. At Hofland Flowering Plants, we believe in supplying only the very best quality – and that’s evident from our plants.
Why opt for Hofland Flowering Plants?
- Over 125 years of experience: Since 1899, we’ve been at the top of our field in the cultivation of high-quality plants. With years of experience and expertise under our belts, you can always rely on us to supply the very best products.
- Royal Warrant: We’re proud of our status as a ‘Hofleverancier’, or Royal Warrant Holder, which is testament to our high level of service and quality.
- Top quality: Our Christmas cacti are cultivated with care, so that you always receive strong, healthy plants that are ready to shine in any interior.
- Wide range: Whether you’re looking for classic red flowers or something more unique, like purple or orange, we can help.
- Reliable delivery: We’re renowned for our reliably, timely deliveries – so you’ll always have the stock you need.
- Sustainability: We grow all our plants with care for people and our planet, which means that you get a beautiful product while making a responsible choice.
Interested in working with us? We’d be happy to discuss the options for adding our premium Schlumbergera plants to your range. Contact us for more information or personalized advice. If you’re a private customer looking to buy one of our blooming beauties, we kindly refer you to a garden centre or florist near you.
