Christmas Cactus

​​

These cacti come in many different colors, from red, pink or purple to peach, orange or cream. Some growers have managed to mix the colors so that there are more than one in a pot. They are generally sold around the holidays in their names, however, many times it’s not the correct holiday. Many of the cacti sold around Christmas are actually Thanksgiving cacti. The reason for this is the bloom times; Thanksgiving cacti are in bloom around the time the Christmas season starts, so they are sold then.

​

To distinguish which cactus you may actually have, take a look at the stem segments. The Thanksgiving cactus segments will have between two and four saw-toothed serrations along the margins while the Christmas cactus segments are more rounded. Also on the Thanksgiving cactus, the pollen bearing antlers will be more of a yellow color while on the Christmas cactus, the antlers will be more purplish-brown.

​

These cacti are long-lived plants, especially with the right care. It is not uncommon for families to pass them down through the generations. They are easy to split into new plants as well. Cut the stem segments where there are at least 2 straight segments and 2 branching segments. Plant in soil and water well, allowing to thoroughly drain. This is a good use of the cuttings taken earlier. Plant several sections in one pot and allow to grow for a few weeks before giving as presents to others.

​

Find more info at https://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/how-to-care-for-the-christmas-cactus

​​​

Picture Source:  https://balconygardenweb.com/how-to-make-a-christmas-cactus-bloom-at-christmas/​

​​