Thanksgiving Cactus

Light Needs

Part Sun to Full Sun

(5+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

1-2 Feet

Mature Spread

1-2 Feet

Growing Zones

4-11 indoors

Thanksgiving Cactus | Schlumbergera truncata

Bring beautiful seasonal color indoors with the Thanksgiving Cactus! Known for its vibrant, long-lasting blooms in shades of pink, red, purple, orange, or white, this easy-care tropical cactus typically flowers in late fall, just in time for Thanksgiving. Its flat, segmented green stems have distinctive pointed edges and gracefully arch over the sides of containers, making it an excellent choice for tabletops, shelves, and hanging baskets.

Unlike desert cacti, Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) is native to tropical forests and prefers indirect sunlight, moderate moisture, and humidity. Also called Crab Cactus or False Christmas Cactus, this long-lived houseplant can rebloom year after year with proper care. Mature plants typically reach 6–12 inches tall and spread 12–24 inches wide.

Why You'll Love Thanksgiving Cactus

• Beautiful Fall Blooms: Colorful flowers brighten your home around Thanksgiving.
• Easy-Care Houseplant: Thrives indoors with bright, indirect light and moderate watering.
• Long-Lived: Can grow and bloom for many years with proper care.
• Pet-Friendly: Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Thanksgiving Cactus Care

Sunlight Requirements

Place Thanksgiving Cactus in bright, indirect sunlight, such as near an east-facing window. Avoid intense afternoon sun, which can scorch its stems. Consistent lighting encourages healthy growth and flowering.

Watering Thanksgiving Cactus

Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. Allow excess water to drain completely, and never leave the pot sitting in water. Thanksgiving Cactus prefers slightly moist soil but is sensitive to overwatering. Moderate indoor humidity is beneficial.

Soil and Repotting

Use a loose, well-draining potting mix containing perlite or orchid bark. Thanksgiving Cactus prefers slightly snug roots and generally only needs repotting every 2–3 years, preferably in spring or after flowering.

Fertilizing Thanksgiving Cactus

Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth in spring and summer. Reduce feeding in fall and stop during winter dormancy.

How to Get Thanksgiving Cactus to Bloom

For dependable fall blooms, provide cooler nighttime temperatures around 55–65°F and approximately 13–14 hours of uninterrupted darkness each night for 6–8 weeks in early fall. Once flower buds appear, maintain consistent temperatures, moisture, and lighting. Avoid sudden changes that can cause buds to drop.