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Plant Profiles / Easter cactus
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Easter cactus
Schlumbergera gaertneri (formerly Hatiora gaertneri) · Spring cactus, Whitsun cactus
A jungle cactus with flat, segmented stems and star-shaped flowers in red, pink, orange or white in spring.
Bright indirectLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright indirect
ShadeFull sun
Bright, filtered light. Avoid hot direct sun.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Water when the top 2–3 cm dries. Drier in autumn.
Humidity
Moderate
LowHigh
Appreciates some humidity.
Temperature
10–27°C (50–80°F)
CoolWarm
Needs cool nights in autumn and winter to set buds.
Growth
Moderate, arching
SlowFast
Grows 30 cm tall and wide.
Soil
Chunky, free-draining
LeanRich
Orchid bark mixed with cactus mix.
Fertiliser
Monthly after flowering
RarelyOften
Balanced fertiliser in summer.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
About this plant
Easter cactus comes from the rainforests of south-east Brazil, where it grows on trees. It's related to Christmas cactus but flowers in spring and has star-shaped, not tubular, flowers. It likes more moisture and less sun than desert cacti.
Best spots
Bright windowsills, hanging baskets and shaded balconies.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Schlumbergera gaertneri (formerly Hatiora gaertneri) |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Origin | South-east Brazil |
| Plant type | Epiphytic cactus |
| Mature size | 30 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Spines | Soft bristles only |
| Flowers | Star-shaped, spring |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Stem segments |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Flowering
Fertilise
Cool rest
FloweringFertiliseCool rest
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| No flowers | Not enough cool nights or too much light at night. |
| Buds dropping | Moved or temperature swings. |
| Limp segments | Over- or underwatering. |
| Red-tinged stems | Too much sun. |
| Rot | Wet soil. |
Common questions
How is it different from Christmas cactus?
It flowers in spring with star-shaped flowers.
How do I get it to rebloom?
Give it cool nights and less water in autumn and winter.
Is it pet safe?
Yes.
Can it hang?
Yes.
