Holiday cacti are a group of succulent plants native to rainforests of Brazil. They are known for their colorful and showy blooms, which typically appear in late fall, early winter and spring, making them popular houseplants during the holiday seasons.
The three most common types of holiday cacti are the Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata), Christmas cactus (schlumbergera bridgesii), and Easter cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri).
Holiday cacti are epiphytes, which means they grow on rocks and other plants in their native home, but can also be grown in soil. They have flat, segmented stems that store water, and small, needle-like leaves that grow along the segments.
The blooms of holiday cacti are typically pink, red, white, or orange, and are produced at the tips of the stems.
Holiday cacti require bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. They are prone to root rot and should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Additionally, they should not sit in any standing water.
Fertilizing holiday cacti every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can help promote healthy growth and blooming. They also need magnesium which can be provided by fertilizing with a solution of epsom salt.
Holiday cacti are generally easy to care for and can live for many years in the right growth conditions. Insect pests and diseases can be a problem in negected plants. These plants can be propagated by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in moist soil.
Below are detailed articles on important care requirements for holiday cacti plants.
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The Easter cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri) is a beautiful plant that blooms in the spring near the Easter holiday. The prolific star-shaped flowers can last for weeks giving plenty of spring color. Flower colors range from white to red, orange, peach, lavender, and pink. Like its cousins, the Christmas and Thanksgiving cactus, this tropical cactus is…
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The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgessii), is a popular holiday plant that produces beautiful blooms during the winter. Christmas cactus leaves curling can be a cause for concern. In this guide, I’ll explain the reasons behind this problem and what you can do to save the plant. Healthy Christmas cactus leaves are rich vibrant and deep…
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Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) or zygocactus is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for plant that can brighten up your home during the winter. It is commonly called the false Christmas cactus because it blooms around the same time as the true Christmas cactus. There are a few differences between the zygocactus and the Christmas cactus which is…
Zygocactus also known as Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) is a popular holiday plant that blooms in late November. It commonly sells as a “Christmas cactus” in various stores during the holidays and most people fail to differentiate it from the true Christmas cactus. The main difference between zygocactus and Christmas cactus is in the shape…