Description for Christmas Cactus, Schlumbergeras
The Thanksgiving cactus is also commonly called the holiday or crab cactus. It grows best in light shade. Full sunlight is beneficial in midwinter, but bright sun during the summer months can make plants look pale and yellow.
Plants Height: 6- 10 inches
Estimated budded leaves 20-30
| Common name | Flower colours | Bloom time | Height | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chrismas Cactus, Schlumbergeras, Christmas cactus, Thanksgiving cactus, Crab cactus, Holiday cactus, False Christmas cactus, Yoke Cacti, Easter Cactus | Purple – Pink | Mid-November and January | 0.75 to 1 feet | Easy to grow |
Planting and care
The Christmas cactus is easily propagated by cutting a short Y-shaped segment from the stem tips. Make certain, however, that the cutting is taken from healthy plant foliage only. Plant the segment approximately a quarter of its length deep in the slightly sandy soil. Moisten evenly and place the cutting in a well-lit area, staying away from any direct sunlight.
To root cuttings for new plants, cut back shoots from the tips, cut at the second joint of each tip. The cutting should show signs of growth within a few weeks, at which time the plant can be transferred to another container, if desired, with a looser potting soil mix of compost, loam, and sand.
| Sunlight | Soil | Water | Temperature | Fertilizer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Sun to Partial Shade | Well-drained soil | Dry to medium | 68 degrees F | Apply any organic fertilizer |
Caring for Christmas Cactus
- Keep them potbound in sandy soil.
- Water only when the soil is completely dry.
- Provide some humidity to the environment.
- Do not worry if some of the buds drop off, it is natural for the plant to lose a few.
- Keep the temperature above 70 F in the daytime, from 55 degrees F to 65 degrees F at night.
Typical uses of Christmas Cactus
Special features: In its native area, Schlumbergera truncata is grown outdoors as an epiphyte or in rock gardens. In cooler climates, this plant can be grown in baskets or pots for brightly-lit window sills. It is sold primarily around the holiday season as a gift or decorative item.
Culinary use: NA
Ornamental use: The plant is used for an ornamental purpose.
Medicinal use: NA
References
- http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/christmas-cactus/advice-for-christmas-cactus-care.htm
- http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b669
- https://www.houseplantsexpert.com/christmas-cactus.html
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