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Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata)
Thanksgiving cactus Schlumbergera truncataPhoto: (c) Victor Farjalla Pontes, some rights reserved (CC BY) · CC BY 4.0

Collector · flowering

Thanksgiving cactus

Schlumbergera truncata

Also found as holiday cactus · Epiphyllum truncatum

Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) is a flowering companion plant. Its care profile below covers light, water, temperature, humidity, substrate, feeding, seasonal care, propagation, and household placement.

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Typical placement
A bright filtered shelf or hanging position where stems can arch naturally
Care
Moderate · Forest epiphytic cactus
Everyday size
Usually a tabletop, windowsill, or floor specimen; flowering size varies by species.
Collector class
Collector
Seller listings
No verified seller listed

Botanical identity

One canonical record.

Names, aliases, lineage, and care information are organized here under one companion plant record.

Genus
Schlumbergera
Family
Cactaceae
Genetic status
Species
Propagation forms
Allow stem cuttings to callus briefly, then root in an airy mix
Plant form
flowering
Information checked
2026-07-31

Household safety

ASPCA-listed non-toxic to cats and dogs

The applicable botanical record is listed by ASPCA as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Eating any plant material can still cause vomiting or gastrointestinal upset.

The ASPCA listing does not establish child or human edibility. Keep decorative plants out of reach and do not ingest.

Read the complete safety guidance

Practical care guide

How to care for Thanksgiving cactus

Forest epiphytic cactus guidance translated into an everyday growing plan.

Moderate
Light
Bright filtered light or gentle morning sun
Water
Water when the upper layer dries; do not treat like a desert cactus
Temperature
Warm growing conditions with a cooler, frost-free rest where flowering requires it (11–29°C)
Humidity
Moderate humidity with airflow (40–70%)
Potting medium
Open bark-rich mix with some moisture retention
Drainage
Free draining while retaining brief, even moisture
Feeding
Half-strength balanced feed monthly during active growth
Pruning and grooming
Trim after flowering to shape and support long stems
Seasonal rhythm
Many flower better after a cooler, slightly drier rest
Propagation
Allow stem cuttings to callus briefly, then root in an airy mix
Travel planning
Usually tolerates seven to twelve days after watering
Common watch-outs
Spider mites · Mealybugs · Scale insects · Fungus gnats when the root zone stays too wet · Root rot from poor drainage · Leaf spotting where foliage remains wet without airflow
Care sourcesRoyal Horticultural Society — Cacti and succulent houseplants

Safety and placement

A clear household plan

Exact scientific-name ASPCA record located; this statement applies to cats and dogs only.

Pets
The applicable botanical record is listed by ASPCA as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Eating any plant material can still cause vomiting or gastrointestinal upset.
Children
The ASPCA listing does not establish child or human edibility. Keep decorative plants out of reach and do not ingest.
Handling
Normal gardening hygiene: wash hands after handling and avoid eye or mouth contact.
Placement
A reasonable choice for cat- or dog-aware homes when the plant, container, and any support are still placed securely.
If exposure happens
If a person chews the plant, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. For animal exposure, call a veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 1-888-426-4435; urgent breathing, collapse, seizure, or severe swelling requires emergency care.
Safety sourcesASPCA Animal Poison Control — Schlumbergera truncataASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database

Plant visual

The companion plant, clearly credited.

Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata)
Thanksgiving cactus Schlumbergera truncataPhoto: (c) Victor Farjalla Pontes, some rights reserved (CC BY) · CC BY 4.0

Primary identification photograph

The source photograph is retained with its original credit and license.

Scenes

See Thanksgiving cactus in three settings.

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Thanksgiving cactus

Refined living room · Bright architectural entryway · Sheltered patio

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Verified availability only

No verified seller is listed today.

Vendor, price, stock, pre-order, and waiting-list information appears only after the exact listing and seller terms are confirmed.

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