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.
The Christmas cactus, scientifically known as Schlumbergera bridgessii, isn’t a typical desert-dwelling succulent. Native to the misty rainforests of Brazil, they are adapted to environments where moisture hangs heavy in the air. They don’t root in soil but grow as epiphytes on trees and rocks. They draw moisture from the humid air and occasional rain….
I still remember the lush, green, beautiful Christmas cactus my grandmother gave me. But one crisp morning, I woke up to a heartbreaking sight. Several of its glossy segments had turned a sickly yellow. Panic set in. Was it dying? Had I failed this heirloom plant? Yellowing in a Christmas cactus isn’t always a death…
As the holiday season approaches, many of us turn our eyes to the vibrant beauty of the Christmas cactus. This isn’t your typical desert-dwelling succulent. It’s a tropical gem that brings a splash of color to our homes and gardens during the coldest days of the year. Native to the shady, humid rainforests of Brazil,…
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Thanksgiving cacti are a holiday staple in many American homes. Their vibrant blooms steal the show just as we’re prepping for turkey and pumpkin pie. But if you’re like me, you’ve probably wondered, How big do these plants actually get? When I brought home my first Thanksgiving cactus, I pictured a petite houseplant that would…
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I remember the first time I tried repotting my Thanksgiving cactus. I was nervous, worried I’d kill my beloved plant with its vibrant, festive blooms. But after a few successful repots, I’ve learned it’s easier than it seems—and it’s a game-changer for keeping your cactus healthy. If your Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) is looking cramped…
I’ve been there—staring at my Thanksgiving cactus, expecting a burst of vibrant blooms, only to see nothing but green. It’s frustrating, especially when you’ve been nurturing it like a proud plant parent. If your Thanksgiving cactus isn’t blooming, don’t worry. I’m sharing the fixes that worked for me. First, let’s make sure we’re on the…