Plant Profile: Schlumbergera truncata

This resilient epiphytic succulent is renowned for its vibrant winter blooms, typically appearing around Thanksgiving, which is why it’s commonly referred to as the Thanksgiving Cactus. It is also known by various other names and is often mistaken for the true Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi). You can distinguish the Thanksgiving Cactus by its claw-like structures on its flat stems (or cladophylls) that resemble crab claws, which is another reason for its nickname, Crab Cactus. Unlike the flowers of Schlumbergera x buckleyi, which droop, the blooms of this cactus stand upright. Despite having "cactus" in its name, this plant does not thrive in hot, dry conditions like many other cacti; instead, it prefers the humid environment of its native Brazilian rainforests. It flourishes in USDA hardiness zones 10-12, but outside of these zones, it is best kept as a houseplant.

To care for it, use a well-draining succulent potting mix and place the plant in a warm room (between 57-72 degrees Fahrenheit) that receives bright light during winter and maintains high humidity. In summer, it requires some shade to prevent leaf yellowing, making bathrooms a popular choice for placement. Be cautious not to overwater this plant. If conditions are right, it may bloom again in February as the days grow longer, or you can encourage blooming by exposing it to night temperatures of 40 degrees for several consecutive nights.

When new growth appears in spring, apply a light fertilizer monthly, tapering off in the fall and early winter. Repot the cactus approximately every three years; it thrives even when slightly pot-bound.

Propagation is straightforward through stem cuttings. Simply cut two or three segments with a sharp knife and allow them to callous for a few days before planting in moist, well-draining potting mix. Water only when the soil is completely dry, and the stems should root within a few weeks. Most commercially available plants today are hybrids of S. russelliana and S. truncata, with the hybrid type influencing the blooming period. There are over 200 cultivars available, showcasing a range of flower colors. If you buy a plant labeled as a Christmas Cactus, it is likely not S. x buckleyi.

**Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Issues:** Reduced flowering or the dropping of flower buds may result from insufficient dark hours (at least 13 uninterrupted hours), as well as sudden changes in temperature, moisture, or light. Common pests include aphids, red spider mites, scale, and mealybugs. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

**Quick Identification**