Schlumbergera gaertneri is a beautiful spring-blooming cactus known for its star-shaped, vividly coloured flowers and elegant arching stems. Often mistaken for the Easter Cactus, this species produces bright red to orange blooms that contrast strikingly with its glossy, scalloped leaf segments. Easy-care and long-lived, it’s a charming, eye-catching plant for bright indoor displays.
Full Botanical Name: Schlumbergera gaertneri
Common Names: Easter Cactus, Gaertner’s Schlumbergera
Country and/or Region of Origin: Coastal Brazil (humid, shaded mountain forests)
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Epiphytic on trees and rocks in cool, moist cloud forests with filtered light, high humidity, and excellent airflow
Care Guide
Care Guide:
Light: Bright, indirect light. Avoid strong midday sun which can mark or fade the stems.
Ideal Room: Living rooms, bedrooms, bright kitchens, or east/north-facing windowsills
Feeding: Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a diluted balanced fertiliser; switch to a bloom-boost fertiliser in late winter.
Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity (50–70%); enjoys misting and thrives near other plants.
Ideal Temperature: 18–24°C; cooler nights around 12–15°C in late winter help trigger flowering.
Watering: Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry. Keep evenly moist in spring during bud formation, but never waterlogged.
Pet/Child Safe:Non-toxic (genus level) — safe for pets and children.
Soil Type: Lightweight, well-draining mix such as cactus soil blended with orchid bark and perlite
Propagation: Very easy—root from stem segments; let cut pieces callus for 24 hours before planting
Eventual Height and Spread: 20–30 cm tall; spreads 30–40 cm with arching stems
Growth Rate: Moderate; faster with stable warmth and regular watering during active growth
Pests and Treatment: Susceptible to mealybugs and fungus gnats in overly moist soil; treat with neem oil or gentle insecticides
Repotting: Every 2–3 years right after flowering in early summer
Pruning: Pinch or twist off segments after flowering to encourage branching and fuller growth
Air Purification: Good; an easy plant that adds seasonal colour and improves indoor freshness
Folklore: Traditionally associated with renewal and new beginnings due to its reliable spring bloom cycle
