The Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) is a popular tropical cactus that is sold around the holidays for its gorgeous and prolific flowers. As its common name indicates, the Thanksgiving cactus is known for blooming around Thanksgiving, bringing a splash of color into your home just as the weather outdoors is getting colder.
It is one of three common holiday cacti that are often confused with one another: the Thanksgiving cactus, the Christmas cactus, and the Easter cactus. While they all look similar, they are technically three different species of Schlumbergera with unique care requirements. Learn how to care for your Thanksgiving cactus and you will be rewarded with a show of gorgeous flowers just in time for the holidays.
In the spring and summer, the Holiday cactus does best in medium indirect light. Prior to blooming in the fall, move it to a brighter location, but avoid direct sun. A spot that gets bright, indirect light is perfect.
A proper watering routine is one of the most important parts of keeping a Holiday cactus happy. The soil should be kept consistently moist and should not be allowed to fully dry out. At the same time, a Thanksgiving cactus should never be waterlogged as it is sensitive to overwatering. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between watering and then water thoroughly until water drains out of the drainage hole in the bottom of the pot.
