Christmas cactuses (Schlumbergera bridgessii) are classic low-stress houseplants. They require very little care, and once a year, your (minimal) efforts are rewarded with an eruption of gorgeous, electric fuchsia blossoms. They’re also easy to propagate, so you can even give cuttings as gifts.
These plants will survive just fine in low light conditions, but according to GardeningKnowHow.com, they bloom better with light exposure. You’ll want to water your Christmas cactus regularly, too, so the soil stays slightly moist. (If you’re a chronic over-waterer, this might be the plant for you.) Finally, consider the temperature and humidity in your home. Here’s what GardeningKnowHow.com recommends:
When considering how to care for Christmas cactus, keep in mind it also prefers temperatures hovering between 60 and 70 degrees F (15-21 C), with average to high humidity levels. Placing a tray of pebbles filled with water beneath the Christmas cactus container is a good way to add more humidity to the home.
If you’re a pet owner and you’re looking for low-maintenance plants that won’t poison your pets, any of these these should offer some versatile options. They’re also fairly common, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding them at your local garden center. Better yet, if a friend or family member already has a thriving plant you like the looks of, ask for some cuttings and propagate them yourself—it’s free and easy.
This story was originally published in April 2016 and updated on October 3, 2019 to add additional information and again on June 1, 2021 by A.A. Newton to reflect Lifehacker’s current style guidelines, to add two new plant recommendations, and updated links.
