The difference between the three cacti is found in the shape of the leaves. The Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumgera truncata) has very pointed and claw shaped projections on the edges of the leaf. The Christmas cactus (Schlumgera bridgesti) has leaf projections which are more scalloped or tear drop shaped .
How many varieties of Christmas cactus are there?
As I later learned from my good friend George Hochmuth, professor emeritus, University of Florida, there are actually three different holiday cacti: the Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata), the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) and the Easter cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaetneri).
Are there different varieties of Christmas cactus?
As I later learned from my good friend George Hochmuth, professor emeritus, University of Florida, there are actually three different holiday cacti: the Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata), the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) and the Easter cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaetneri).
What is the difference between false Christmas cactus and Christmas cactus?
The margins of the stems will be rounded with small visible points or nubs. True Christmas cactus flowers will be more rounded than the imposter and will follow the direction of the stem and point down. Colors will be carmine, pink and reds.
Is there more than one kind of Christmas cactus?
Although these familiar cacti are traditionally available in shades of red, today’s holiday cactus varieties come in magenta, pink, and scarlet, as well as yellow, white, orange, purple, salmon, and apricot.
Do you water a Christmas cactus from the top or bottom?
In general, water a Christmas cactus when the top inch or 2 of soil is dry . To help increase the humidity around your plant, fill the pot saucer with pebbles and add water to just below the tops of the pebbles (the pot shouldn’t be sitting directly in water). The air will become more humid as the water evaporates.
What Colour is the Christmas cactus?
| genus name Schlumbergera | flower color Purple Red Orange White Pink Yellow | foliage color Blue/Green | season features Spring Bloom Fall Bloom Winter Bloom | special features Good for Containers Low Maintenance |
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Should you deadhead Christmas cactus?
While not necessary for all cacti since some cactus flowers drop from the plant once they are spent, deadheading cactus flowers can promote additional blooms and encourage growth while also tidying up the cactus. ... Deadheading can be done throughout the growing season while the Christmas cactus is in bloom.
What does the Christmas cactus symbolize?
Symbolism. Schlumbergera does not have any official meaning, but because this succulent can live for 20 to 30 years as a houseplant, we think it makes a good symbol for loyalty .
Why is my Christmas cactus turning purple?
Location – Christmas cactus requires bright light during fall and winter, but too much direct light during the summer months may be the reason for Christmas cactus leaves turning purple on edges. Moving the plant to a more appropriate location may prevent sunburn and solve the problem.
Why are the leaves on my Christmas cactus turning red?
Red or purple-tinged foliage and wilting are two common symptoms of a magnesium deficiency , which is a common ailment in Christmas cacti. It occurs mainly during the winter months when feeding and watering are restricted and cold temperatures slow the plant’s nutrient uptake.
How many colors do Christmas cactus come in?
The Christmas cactus (Zygocactus) is native to the South American jungles. The flowers bloom once a year and come in shades of fuchsia, yellow, salmon, pink, white, orange, red and sometimes will even have a combination of the colors . The Christmas cacti are tropical plants.
Can a Christmas cactus bloom in spring?
Yes. Unlike many other succulents, Christmas cactus can bloom again in spring if given the short days condition . Placing Christmas cactus into the east-facing window that receives abundant amounts of sunlight during the day and 12 hours of darkness each night can encourage the plant to flower again.
Do Christmas cactus like to be root bound?
Christmas Cactuses actually like to have their roots sort of crowded . This is a struggle for plant parents because it’s tough to prevent them from becoming root bound when they actually grow best in a crowded pot.
What is the Christmas cactus used for in floral design?
This is the ideal plant to provide warm colors during the cold season. An abundantly flowering succulent, the Christmas cactus will bloom for six to eight weeks every winter.
How often should I water Christmas cactus?
- Plan to water every 2-3 weeks, but only water when the top one third of soil feels dry to the touch. ...
- From spring through early fall, feed every 2 weeks with a balanced houseplant fertilizer. ...
- Prune plants in late spring to encourage branching and more flowers.
