The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Cacti: Thanksgiving vs. Christmas vs. Easter Cactus
Cactus plants are a delightful addition to any indoor garden, especially during the winter holidays. Among the popular choices are the Christmas cactus, Thanksgiving cactus, and Easter cactus. While these flowering succulents may look similar at first glance, there are key differences that set them apart. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to distinguish between these holiday cacti and provide essential care tips to ensure they thrive in your home.
How to Tell Thanksgiving Cactus and Christmas Cactus Apart
One of the easiest ways to differentiate between Thanksgiving and Christmas cacti is by examining the shapes of their leaves. The Thanksgiving cactus, also known as Schlumbergera truncata, features serrated leaves with pointy appendages that resemble crab claws. On the other hand, the Christmas cactus, or Schlumbergera bridgesi, has more rounded leaves with scalloped edges.
When it comes to flowering, both cacti bloom indoors during the colder months, but the positioning of the flowers is a notable distinction. The flowers on a Thanksgiving cactus stand up slightly, while those on a Christmas cactus hang down. Additionally, the flowers of both plants have tubular shapes with delicate pointed petals in various shades of white, pink, red, peach, or orange.
To avoid any confusion when purchasing these plants, pay close attention to their features. Look for the following characteristics to differentiate between the two:
Thanksgiving Cactus:
- Serrated leaves with spiky center stems
- Anthers are yellow
- Flowers stand up slightly
Christmas Cactus:
- Rounded leaves with scalloped edges
- Anthers are pink to purple-brown
- Flowers hang downwards
Is Easter Cactus Different From Thanksgiving and Christmas Cacti?
In addition to Thanksgiving and Christmas cacti, there is also the Easter cactus, scientifically known as Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri. Unlike its holiday counterparts, the Easter cactus blooms in the spring months, typically starting in late winter and continuing through March or April. While the flowers share similar pink hues, the Easter cactus has star-like blooms with a double row of petals.
The leaves of the Easter cactus are more rounded like the Christmas cactus, but they feature tiny serrated edges. Originating from a non-tropical forest region in Brazil, the Easter cactus is more sensitive to moisture and requires careful watering to thrive.
How to Get a Flowering Cactus to Bloom
Encouraging your holiday cacti to bloom requires some adjustments to their care routine. The Thanksgiving cactus blooms from late fall to midwinter, while the Christmas cactus blooms from early winter to midwinter. The Easter cactus, on the other hand, blooms from late winter to early spring.
To promote blooming, provide warm temperatures during the day (70°F to 75°F) and slightly cooler temperatures at night (65°F). Before their blooming seasons, move the cacti to a location with nighttime temperatures between 50°F to 60°F for at least a week. This change in temperature can be achieved by using space heaters during the day or adjusting the room’s heating at night.
Additionally, ensure the cacti receive 12 to 14 hours of total darkness per day for at least three weeks leading up to blooming. This darkness helps stimulate flower formation and enhances the blooming period.
Flowering Cactus Care Tips
To keep your holiday cacti healthy and vibrant, follow these care tips:
- Remove spent blooms promptly to encourage new growth and more flowers.
- Provide indirect light, replicating their natural rainforest habitat where they receive partial shade.
- Use a well-draining, rich potting soil mix suitable for succulents or cacti.
- Water the Thanksgiving and Christmas cacti frequently to maintain evenly moist soil, allowing the surface to dry out between waterings.
- Be cautious not to overwater the Easter cactus, as it is more sensitive to excess moisture.
With proper care and attention, your holiday cacti will reward you with stunning blooms year after year. Celebrate the seasons with these beautiful and unique succulents that add warmth and color to your home.
Remember, each holiday cactus has its own charm and distinctive features, making them a delightful addition to any plant collection. By understanding the differences between Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter cacti, you can cultivate a diverse array of blooming cacti that brighten your home throughout the year.
