Schlumbergera truncata is an epiphytic forest cactus from the Cactaceae family. It grows in coastal parts of south eastern Brazil. Schlumbergera truncata has beautiful arching stems with flattened segments. The plant produces showy blooms between November and January, during this time water normally and maintain a minimum temperature of 12°C. When the plant has finished blooming (usually February/March) it will need to rest, keep temperatures between 10-12°C.
Genus name honors Frederick Schlumberger, Belgian horticulturist. Specific epithet comes from the Latin truncatus meaning ‘to maim, mutilate’.
Light: Bright indirect light, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive. In its natural environment this plant would receive dappled light.
Water: With adequate light and a well draining potting mix, allow the top two inches to dry out before watering.
Potting mix: A well draining mix composed of coco coir, perlite or vermiculite, orchid bark and worm castings; you could also add some horticultural charcoal to this epiphytic mix.
Fertilising: Feed your plant with a cactus fertiliser every other watering during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: Ideally 12-21°C but during resting period 10-12°C.
Humidity: Schlumbergera truncata would prefer higher humidity but do well to adapt to average home humidity. You can increase humidity by placing the plant on a watered pebble tray or using a humidifier.
Schlumbergera truncata is toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.