Spring Cactus
Posted by Hannah Brand on Mar 9th 2025
Weekly Plant Chat: Spring Cactus
Hey Plant Friends!
This week we are talking about Schlumbergera rhipsalidopsis, more commonly known as Spring Cactus. The Spring Cactus blooms March – May and is known for its vibrant, star-shaped blooms and easy care. This group of cacti are quite popular and resilient and are known to live for many, many years. There are 3 different varieties of holiday cactus - Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter! Each variety is easily identified by their leaf shape. The Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) has very pointed and claw shaped projections on the edge of their leaves. The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) has leaf projections which are more scalloped, or tear drop shaped. The Easter cactus (Schlumbergera rhipsalidopsis) has rounded leaves.
Family of Origin
Spring Cactus belongs to the Cactaceae or Cactus plant family and is native to South America.
Plant Care
Light
Spring cactus like bright, indirect or filtered light and require short days to bloom.
Soil
When it’s time to repot, we recommend using cactus specific potting soil. We love the Sol Soils Cactus Gritty Mix.
Water
While Spring Cactus do tolerate drought, make sure to keep them well hydrated upon bud set. When not in bloom, allow the soil to dry down between waterings.
Fertilizer
Fertilize at half-strength with an all-purpose fertilizer such as Schultz All Purpose Liquid Plant Food during periods of active growth.
Hot Tips
Check for pests weekly while watering and keep a bottle of Bonide’s Insecticidal Soap on hand for easy treatment.
Keep Holiday Cactus near a cool window to encourage blooms. Once bud set has begun, changes in temperature or light can cause bud drop.
Shop Now!
Spring Cactus are available in 2", 4” and 6"pots in the greenhouse.
Always approachable and happy to help!