Happy Flower Pot

Christmas cactus

Schlumbergera bridgesii (Cactaceae)

Also called Easter Cactus.

Cats and dogs

Non-toxic to cats and dogs

Cats: non-toxic Dogs: non-toxic

Not expected to poison cats or dogs. Eating any plant can still cause vomiting or an upset stomach, so keep it out of reach of chewers.

Source: ASPCA entry "Christmas Cactus", checked October 3, 2026.

Light

  1. Low light 3+ mol
  2. Medium light 6+ mol Copes
  3. Bright indirect 10+ mol Best
  4. Direct sun 12+ mol

Holiday cacti want bright, indirect light and do not tolerate long periods of strong direct sun. Wisconsin Extension says a south exposure works if direct sun is limited to a few morning hours, while NC State simply advises avoiding direct sun; avoid deep shade.

Direct sun: a little gentle morning sun is fine.

On our scale it grows well from about 10 mol/m²/day and holds on down to roughly 1.1 (how these numbers are set).

Will it grow in my window?

Care

Care level: Moderate. Water: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, without overwatering; in a heavier mix let it dry somewhat between waterings.

Short, cool days in fall trigger flower buds; moving the plant to very different light can make buds drop.

More pet-safe plants for similar light

Sources