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Schlumbergera russelliana

Common name: Russell's cactus · Easter cactus ancestor · Christmas cactus parent

Schlumbergera russelliana is an epiphytic cactus found only in a small area of the coastal mountains of Rio de Janeiro state in southeastern Brazil. It forms pendulous chains of flattened, rounded-toothed stem segments and bears pink to purplish, radially symmetric flowers in spring in its native habitat. Though rarely grown in pure form today, it is famous as one parent of the popular Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera × buckleyi).

Fun facts

  • It was introduced to Europe in the 1830s, where it became one half of the famous Christmas cactus hybrid.
  • In the wild it is restricted to a narrow strip of Brazil's Atlantic Forest, a heavily threatened ecosystem.
  • Its flowers are held more horizontally and are more radially symmetric than those of S. truncata.
  • It can grow perched on mossy tree branches or on shaded rock faces in misty mountain forests.

Care summary

Sun Bright filtered light; protect from direct sun
Water Keep evenly moist; slight drying between waterings
Soil Rich, humusy, sharply draining epiphyte mix
Hardiness Zones 10–11
Mature height About 30–60 cm (1–2 ft)
Pet safe Yes; non-toxic to cats and dogs
Difficulty Moderate
Propagation Stem segment cuttings root easily: twist or cut off a piece of two to three joined segments, let the end callus for a day or two, then insert it into moist, free-draining epiphyte mix and keep warm and lightly humid until rooted.

Make your own Russell's cactus · Easter cactus ancestor · Christmas cactus parent profile

Common problems

    • Keep the plant in one spot
    • Avoid drafts and temperature swings
    • Water evenly while buds develop
    • Let the top inch dry first
    • Use a free-draining epiphyte mix
    • Empty saucers after watering
    • Dab pests with rubbing alcohol
    • Rinse the plant under lukewarm water
    • Repeat treatment every week
    • Give long dark nights in autumn
    • Keep nights cool for six weeks
    • Avoid artificial light after dusk