Christmas cactus, or hybrid Schlumbergera buckleyi, is a well-known cactus in the Cactaceae family that is grown for its eye-catching cerise flowers, which bloom inside around the time of Christmas in the Northern Hemisphere. The majority of Christmas cacti that are currently grown are thought to be hybrids between S. russelliana and the Thanksgiving, or crab, cactus (Schlumbergera truncata, originally Epiphyllum truncatum). It is native to Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte in rainforests, primarily on trees or bushes but also in shaded areas among rocks. It is a member of the Schlumbergera genus. Zygocactus, the alternate name for the genus, is commonly used.
The Thanksgiving cactus and the Christmas cactus are sometimes confused, although the former has crenated (rounded) stem joint margins, and the latter has strongly saw-toothed stem joint margins. Thanksgiving cacti are frequently mistakenly marketed as Christmas cacti since they bloom in the late fall.
Do Christmas cacti naturally occur?
In Brazil’s rain forests, the Christmas cactus and other holiday cacti (Schlumbergera spp.) grow naturally. This epiphytea plant, a type of tropical cactus, gets its water and nutrients from the air rather than the soil. It takes root in rock cracks or on tree detritus in its natural habitat. Like any true cactus, it is a succulent and retains moisture in its limbs that resemble leaves. The proper ratio of soil moisture, humidity, and air is necessary for healthy roots.
Christmas cacti are they uncommon?
On occasion, in March, Christmas and Thanksgiving cacti bloom profusely. This sort of thing does occur occasionally. Even while these flowers are typically more sparse than those you’ll see during the holidays, don’t be shocked if you see them from March to May. The majority of holiday cactus bloom more than once per year, which is the cause. Look for any buds that are developing in the spaces between the leaf segments. Using the methods mentioned above, you can encourage them to blossom, or you can just watch to see what occurs.
At any time of year, take advantage of the vibrant blossoms and post images to our Facebook page!