Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) and Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi) are popular, fall- and winter-flowering houseplants native to Brazil, and are available in a wide variety of colors including red, rose, purple, lavender, peach, orange, cream, and white.
Where did the Thanksgiving cactus originate?
Thanksgiving, or crab, cactus (Schlumbergera truncata, formerly Epiphyllum truncatum) and S. russelliana. Like other Schlumbergera species, it is native to Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte in rainforests, mainly on trees or shrubs but sometimes in shady places among rocks.
What is the difference between Christmas cactus and Thanksgiving cactus?
The difference between the three cacti is found in the shape of the leaves. The Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumgera truncata) has very pointed and claw shaped projections on the edges of the leaf. The Christmas cactus (Schlumgera bridgesti) has leaf projections which are more scalloped or tear drop shaped.
How many times a year does a Thanksgiving cactus bloom?
Under the right conditions, a Thanksgiving cactus will bloom once a year during the late fall. How Long Do Thanksgiving Cacti Live? Holiday cacti are often passed down through generations because they have an incredibly long life. A Thanksgiving cactus can live up to 100 years with proper care.
Where is Christmas cactus found?
Like other Schlumbergera species, it is native to Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte in rainforests, mainly on trees or shrubs but sometimes in shady places among rocks.
Should I water my Thanksgiving cactus while it’s blooming?
Flowers of the Thanksgiving cactus and its relatives are produced from the tips, or from where the leaf segments join. … To care for your Thanksgiving cactus, allow the soil to dry out during “resting periods,” or in other words, when it is not producing blooms. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Why is my Thanksgiving cactus turning purple?
Location – Christmas cactus requires bright light during fall and winter, but too much direct light during the summer months may be the reason for Christmas cactus leaves turning purple on edges. Moving the plant to a more appropriate location may prevent sunburn and solve the problem.
Should I mist my Thanksgiving cactus?
High temperatures, excessive heat fluctuation, and dry air are not ideal for a holiday cactus, so if your home is excessively dry because of a wood stove or another form of dry heat, make sure to mist the leaves to create humidity around the plants.
How much sun does a Thanksgiving cactus need?
Thanksgiving cactus with pale pink blossom. Light &, Temperature: The holiday cacti grow best in light shade. Full sunlight is beneficial during fall and winter, but bright sun during the summer months can make plants look pale and yellow.
Why is my Thanksgiving cactus drooping?
Wilted or limp Christmas cactus is sometimes caused by a lack of water or too much direct sunlight. If you’ve neglected to water the limp Christmas cactus, begin by giving the plant a limited drink. Continue to water sparingly every few days until the soil is lightly moist.
Can a Thanksgiving cactus live outside?
Thanksgiving cactus is generally considered a house plant. You can grow it outdoors, in partial shade, all year long in the warmer zones – 10 and above. If your temperatures are colder than this, you should grow crab cactus as an indoor plant.
Can you propagate Thanksgiving cactus?
Growing Thanksgiving Cactus Cuttings
The plants are easy to propagate and multiply. Snip off a stem with 4 to 5 sections and leaves. Dust the end with fungicide and allow it to callus for a week in a dry location.
When should I transplant my Thanksgiving cactus?
Wait to repot until after blooms have faded, but before new buds develop. Depending on your plant, this is generally in early spring. Thanksgiving Cactus often bloom best when pot-bound. Do not repot them unless necessary.