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Shrimp Cactus
Schlumbergera russelliana · Cactaceae
How it looks
Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera) is a cactus with succulent branches made of flat segments arranged in trailing rows. It has no spines, and in winter funnel-shaped pink, red, or white flowers hang from the branch tips. Grown as a hanging plant, it reaches 12–20 in (30–50 cm) long.
This plant is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. That said, the spines can cause physical injury, so choose its spot with care.
Guide for parents
A safe cactus, but the spines can lodge in a mouth or paw, so placement matters. Curious young cats may pat at the spines and end up with a hurt nose or paw pad — keep it on a shelf that's hard to reach. If a spine gets stuck, pull it straight out with tweezers, and if it won't come out easily, have a vet remove it.
Details
- Scientific name
- Schlumbergera russelliana
- Common name
- Shrimp Cactus
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Cactaceae
Other safe flowers
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