How can you tell the difference between a Christmas cactus and a Thanksgiving 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.

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Similarly, 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).

Beside this, is there such a thing as an Easter cactus? Answer: An Easter cactus, also known as a spring cactus or Rhipsalidopsis gaetneri or Hatiora gaetneri, is one of three popular holiday cacti—alongside the previously mentioned Thanksgiving and Christmas species. With reference to their namesake, Easter cacti typically bloom in spring, around the time of Easter.

Herein, 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.

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.

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 many colors of Christmas cactus are there?

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.

How do you take care of a Christmas cactus year round?

Avoiding Problems With Christmas Cactus Health

  1. Maintain the correct light/dark schedule. …
  2. Don’t water too much. …
  3. Don’t water too little. …
  4. Make sure the plant gets enough indirect sunlight but keep it out of direct sunlight. …
  5. Keep the plant away from direct heat sources, like a fireplace or heating vent.

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.

When should I repot my Christmas cactus?

When to Repot Christmas Cactus

Most plants are best repotted when they display new growth in spring, but Christmas cactus repotting should be done after blooming ends and the flowers have wilted in late winter or early spring. Never attempt to repot the plant while it is actively blooming.

How do I make my Christmas cactus bloom?

Christmas cacti produce flowers in a cool, environment-short day cycle. To initiate the production of flower buds, there needs to be at least eight days of 16 hours of dark and eight hours of light each day. Wherever the plant is placed, do not turn on the lights at night, even for a short period of time.

Will an Easter cactus bloom at Christmas?

This weeks stumper was “Why is my Christmas Cactus blooming in March?” This actually has a very simple answer: Because it’s not a Christmas Cactus – it’s an Easter Cactus. Most people see this plant and think Christmas Cactus.

How often should you water an Easter cactus?

Water them anywhere from every 3-6 weeks depending on the temps, the mix it’s in & the size & type of pot it’s planted in. You want to keep the temps between 50 & 65 degrees F. 50-55 degrees is best at night. If your temps are warmer, they’ll require a longer period of darkness.

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.

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