Cacti are normally found in hot and dry climates. Members of the Schlumbergera genus, which is in the Cactaceae family, are native to the rainforests of Brazil. The reason why these cacti do so well in the rainforests is because of where they grow in the rainforests. These are mostly epiphytic plants. An epiphytic plant grows on top of another plant; most often that other plant is a tree. These epiphytic cacti grow in trees, where although it may rain a lot, they have little access to the rain water because it falls to the forest floor quickly. This environmental niche has been filled by a plant that can withstand drought regardless of high humidity or constant rainfall.
Tree-dwelling cacti from Brazil. Their stems resemble pads joined together end-to-end. Flowers develop on the ends of the stems.
| Plant Types: | Interior Plant, Perennial, Succulent |
| Light: | Shade to Full Sun |
| Height: | 1 foot to 2 feet |
| Zones: | 11a to 12b |
| Bloom Color: | Pink, Purple, Red, White |
| Bloom Seasons: | Early spring, Mid winter, Late winter |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Special Features: | Not North American native |
| Shape: | Spreading or horizontal |
| Type of Soil Preferred: | Acidic, Adaptable, Neutral, Sandy, Well-Drained |
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Sow seeds in spring. Take stem cuttings in summer or fall.
Repot every 3 to 4 years.
Does best with bright, but indirect light.
To ensure late December bloom, plant needs cool night temperatures (50-55°F) and 12-14 hours of darkness per day in November.
Regular water. Grow in humus rich soil that is acidic to neutral in pH.
Prone to mealybugs.