In winter, the Christmas cactus enchants with its colorful blooms. But is it poisonous and dangerous? Here is the answer!
The Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi) is a real cactus plant (Cactaceae) - even if it doesn't really look like it. The wild species of the hybrids bred by us are located in the tropical and subtropical areas of Brazil. The green, leaf-like structures are phyllocladia. These are transformations of the stem axis that serve the Christmas cactus to store water and to operate photosynthesis. If these leaf-like structures are damaged, a sap is released. Like all other parts of the Christmas cactus plant, this is slightly poisonous.
Christmas cactus: toxic to children and adults?
The Christmas cactus, which is considered to be slightly poisonous, does not usually pose any danger to adults. However, no parts of the plant should be consumed. The sap that escapes when the leaf-like phyllocladia are injured can lead to skin irritations. The Christmas cactus should be placed out of the reach of children. If parts of the Christmas cactus plant have been consumed by a child, a doctor must be consulted immediately!
Christmas cactus: toxic to cats?
Even if only slightly toxic, the Christmas cactus can pose a danger to cats. Therefore, it should not only be placed out of the reach of children, but also for cats. If a hungry cat has got rid of the decorative Christmas cactus, the vet should be consulted.
If you do not want to do without the flowering Christmas cactus with your child and / or cat, there is a compromise that can solve the problem: the cactus plant can simply be planted in a hanging basket and will also feel good at lofty heights - completely out of the reach of children and cats.
The winter cactus is a perennial plant. How to help it to flower again after winter, you can find out in our article "Christmas cactus: successfully blooming“.