They may seem like different versions of the same plant, but the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) and the Easter cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaetneri) are completely different plants.
Regarding this, does Christmas cactus bloom at Easter?
Easter cacti bloom in spring, starting to reveal flower buds in February and flowering from March through May. Christmas and Thanksgiving cacti bloom in late fall or winter, with Thanksgiving varieties typically blooming a month earlier than the Christmas ones.
- Besides the later flowering time, you’ll also notice the shape of the Easter Cactus flowers is quite different from Schlumbergeras.
- Look for flat, rectangular leaves with slightly scalloped edges, and round, upward-facing flowers.
Herein, what are the three types 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).
When should you put a Christmas cactus in the dark?
Step 3: Move the Mature Cactus to a Dark Location
In late September or early October, place the mature plant in a dark room or keep it covered (under a box or bag works fine) for at least 12 hours a day.
Why is my Christmas cactus limp?
Wilted or limp Christmas cactus is sometimes caused by a lack of water or too much direct sunlight. … Continue to water sparingly every few days until the soil is lightly moist. Soil that is too wet causes Christmas cactus problems too.
How long do Christmas cactus live?
20 to 30 years
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.
Do Christmas cactus like coffee grounds?
The main benefit of using coffee grounds on Christmas cactus is, of course, it helps it bloom in season. It will give your cacti the little boost it needs and can help revive your Christmas cactus if you think it may be dying.
Why does my Easter cactus not flower?
If the plant doesn’t form flowers it mean that the Easter cactus was kept in too little light and/or the night temperatures were too high. Don’t expose the plant to sudden changes in temperature or move it around too much. Doing this will cause the buds to drop before opening.
Is Easter cactus poisonous to cats?
Fortunately, the Christmas Cactus (or its relative, the Easter Cactus) plant is not toxic to dogs in either its parts or flowers. The same applies for cats. However, fibrous plant material can cause irritation to the stomach and intestine, leading to vomiting or diarrhea.
What does a Easter cactus look like?
Flat succulent leaf segments are characteristic of Easter Cactus. They branch freely creating a full plant specimen with shiny, leathery leaves. The flowering cycle starts in spring (right around Easter) and flower bud set is induced by dry soil and cool temperatures in early winter.
What does the Christmas cactus symbolize?
Officially the Christmas cactus does not have any symbolic meaning. But because the plant is not afraid to commit to a relationship and can be your companion for 20 to 30 years, we think ‘loyalty’ would be a good symbolism.
How can you tell if its a Christmas cactus?
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 times a year does a Thanksgiving cactus bloom?
Whatever type of plant it is, the Thanksgiving holiday cactus is a proven winner, with blooms that last for 2 to 4 months and an easy-going nature. The only real problem with the plant is its need to be fooled in order to bloom again the next year.
