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Schlumbergera truncata

common winter cactus

A cactus with erect stems that then become pendent-forming as a bushy, trailing plant with flattened and toothed, oblong stem segments. Flowers produced at the stem tips in autumn and winter are usually in shades of purple, pink or red

Other common names
crab cactus
lobster cactus
see moreChristmas cactus

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Sand
Loam
Moisture
Well–drained, Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green Purple Red Pink
Winter Green Purple Red Pink
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1B
Botanical details
Family
Cactaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Trailing
Genus

Schlumbergera are bushy epiphytic perennials with arching stems formed of flattened segments, and trumpet-shaped flowers

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained compost in bright light but avoid direct sunlight and maintain a minimum temperature of 10°C. See Schlumbergera cultivation for further information

Propagation

Propagate by stem cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Houseplants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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