Christmas Cactus Schlumbergera bridgesii
At a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect
- 5000–15000 lux
- Water
- Every 7–14 days
- Top 2cm of soil
- Humidity
- 50–60%
- Temperature
- 13–24°C
- Ideal 18–22°C
- Soil pH
- 5.5–6.5
- well-draining
- Mature size
- 30 cm tall
- 60 cm wide
- Native to
- Coastal mountains of southeast Brazil
- Growth
- Moderate
- Trailing
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your Christmas Cactus based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
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Compare with similar plants
| Trait | Christmas Cactus Schlumbergera bridgesii | Aloe Vera Aloe barbadensis miller | Lithops Lithops aucampiae |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright indirect | Direct sun | Direct sun |
| Water | 7–14 days | 14–21 days | 21–60 days |
| Pet safe | Pet-safe | Toxic to cats and dogs | Pet-safe |
| Difficulty | Easy | Very Easy | Challenging |
| Mature size | 30 cm | 60 cm | 5 cm |
Light requirements in detail
Christmas Cactus prefers bright indirect (5000–15000 lux) . Bright indirect during growth; cooler dim conditions in autumn trigger blooming
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water Christmas Cactus every 7– 14 days during the growing season, allowing Top 2cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
Consistent moisture matters here — long dry spells will show up as crispy leaf edges.
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Frequently asked questions about Christmas Cactus
How often should I water Christmas Cactus?
Water Christmas Cactus every 7–14 days during the growing season, allowing Top 2cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency by 30–50% in winter.
What kind of light does Christmas Cactus need?
Christmas Cactus prefers bright indirect (5000–15000 lux). Bright indirect during growth; cooler dim conditions in autumn trigger blooming
Is Christmas Cactus toxic to cats?
Christmas Cactus is non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Mild stomach upset is still possible if a cat chews the leaves, but it will not cause poisoning.
Is Christmas Cactus toxic to dogs?
Christmas Cactus is non-toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Mild stomach upset is still possible if a dog chews the leaves.
How big does Christmas Cactus grow?
Christmas Cactus reaches about 30 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity. Growth rate is moderate.