The Christmas cactus (Schlumgera bridgesti / Schlumbergera × buckleyi), mostly known for its dazzling flowers during the festive season, is commonly cultivated as a houseplant. This particular variety of cactus is more suited to tropical climates and prefers even moisture and shadiness, as compared to its arid counterparts. This blog explores the difference between the Christmas cactus and Thanksgiving cactus. It explains the care requirements for growing a healthy Christmas cactus, including ideal lighting, temperature, watering, and soil conditions. It also addresses common issues such as the plant’s failure to bloom, wilting leaves, and how to propagate it. Additionally, it highlights the non-toxic nature of the Christmas cactus, making it a safe choice for households with pets.
The Christmas cactus is scientifically known as Schlumbergera bridgesti or Schlumbergera × buckleyi. Both of these names refer to the same plant species, though there are subtle differences in their origin and classification:
Schlumbergera bridgesti: This is the species most commonly referred to as the “Christmas cactus.” It is native to the cloud forests of Brazil, where it grows in shaded, humid environments. The plant is known for its beautiful, tubular flowers that bloom around Christmas time. The flowers can come in a range of colors, including red, pink, white, and purple.
Schlumbergera × buckleyi: This is a hybrid species that typically results from the cross between Schlumbergera bridgesti and Schlumbergera truncata. This hybrid is often referred to as the Christmas cactus as well because it shares many of the same traits as Schlumbergera bridgesti, including the timing of its blooms. However, Schlumbergera × buckleyi tends to have slightly different flower shapes and can exhibit a wider variety of bloom colors.
In short, while Schlumbergera bridgesti is the primary species responsible for the Christmas cactus, Schlumbergera × buckleyi is a hybrid that is closely related and also commonly referred to as the Christmas cactus. Both plants are popular houseplants, prized for their vibrant flowers during the holiday season.
Difference Between Christmas Cactus and Thankgiving Cactus?
Did you know that many people confuse the Christmas Cactus (Schlumgera bridgesti / Schlumbergera × buckleyi) with the Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata). At first glance, they may look nearly identical, but learning to distinguish between these two plants is essential, especially if you’re trying to plan your holiday décor.
1. Leaf Shape
The easiest way to tell the two apart is by examining the edges of their leaves (which are technically flattened stems called cladodes).
- Christmas Cactus (Schlumgera bridgesti / Schlumbergera × buckleyi): Has smooth, rounded edges on its leaf segments.
- Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata): Features sharper, pointy edges with claw-like projections, giving it a spikier appearance.
2. Bloom Time
- Christmas Cactus (Schlumgera bridgesti / Schlumbergera × buckleyi): True to its name, this plant blooms closer to Christmas, typically in December.
- Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata): Blooms earlier, around late November in time for Thanksgiving.
How to Care for a Christmas Cactus Indoors?
Caring for a Christmas cactus indoors can be quite simple if you follow a few basic guidelines. These plants are relatively low-maintenance but require the right conditions to thrive.
Light Requirements
Christmas cacti thrive in bright, out of direct sunlight although they may tolerate low light ranges which might affect their blooming cycle. These plants are relatively low-maintenance but require the right conditions to thrive.
Temperature
Christmas cacti grow best in relatively cooler temperatures, especially when blooming. Ideal temperatures should be in the range of 60F degrees to 70F (15C to 21C). These should never be exposed to temperatures below 10C (50F), as cold drafts are detrimental and cause stress leading to lack of blooming.
Watering
Watering is the most important factor in the care of the Christmas cactus. These are succulent plants and hence water is stored in their stem. Drenching the soil will cause root rot and not watering will cause the plant to droop. The rule of thumb is to let the soil dry before watering again.
In spring and summer, water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. In the autumn and in the winter, when the cactus is in its blooming period, cut back on the watering to prevent root rot and promote flowering. Remember to provide adequate drainage in the pot to prevent the water from pooling at the bottom.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is preferred by Christmas cacti. A good cactus mix will work or a mixture of peat, perlite, and sand will create the right texture for the roots. The soil has to be slightly acidic, which is why most mixes for cacti or succulents are the best option.
Fertilizing
During the growing season, fertilize your Christmas cactus every 2-3 weeks with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. A cactus or succulent-specific fertilizer works well. Stop fertilizing in the fall when the plant begins to set buds for blooming, as excessive nutrients can prevent flowers from forming.
Why My Christmas Cactus is Not Blooming?
There are explanations as to why your Christmas cactus is not producing any blooms. Below are some of the most common factors that cause the blooming hindrances:
1. Incorrect Light Levels: The Christmas cactus requires a period of darkness to bloom. If the plant is exposed to too much light at night (due to streetlights or indoor lighting), it may fail to flower. Ensure the plant gets at least 12-14 hours of darkness each night for about 3-4 weeks before it’s expected to bloom.
2. Temperature: As mentioned, Christmas cacti prefer cooler temperatures, especially during the blooming period. Keeping the plant too warm can delay or prevent blooming.
3. Irregular Watering: If you water your Christmas cactus inconsistently, it may not bloom. Overwatering or underwatering can stress the plant, leading to a lack of flowers.
4. Too Much Fertilizing: Excessive fertilizer can encourage lush growth at the expense of blooms. Ensure you follow the recommended feeding schedule.
Is Christmas Cactus Safe for Pets?
As plant owners, one of the significant questions and concerns that people have in their minds is whether the plants are safe for pets especially cats and dogs, Well, is Christmas cactus poisonous to cats or dogs? The good news is that Christmas cactus is not believed to be toxic to cats, dogs, or the other pets. The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) observes Christmas cactus as non-toxic plants to both cats and dogs. Thus, they are also safe for families who have pets. Of course, plants shouldn’t be in the mouths of pets; however, the Christmas cactus doesn’t present a serious risk if eaten.
Now, even so, it should be noted that if any animal eats a considerable quantity of Christmas cactus, it might lead to some mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. If that is the case, then consult your vet, though it’s generally not a cause for alarm.
What to Do if My Christmas Cactus Leaves are Drooping or Wilting?
What should you do or think when you notice that the leaves of your Christmas cactus are wilting or drooping? It could be owing to a problem, perhaps. Below are some of the likely reasons and their remedies:
1. Overwatering: One of the most prevalent causes of drooping or wilting is excessive water application. If the roots are submerged in waterlogged soil, they are sewage and may start rotting and the plant will end up lacking nutrients and water. Uh, put the soil in the pot that contains adequate drainage, and let the soil dry up before you water it again.
2. Underwatering: If this is the case, the plant hasn’t been receiving enough water hence it can be said to be showing signs of water stress owing to drought. Water it when the top inch of soil is dry and do not allow the plant to have dry conditions for long periods.
3. Temperature Stress: Like other types of plants, Christmas cacti also do not like extreme temperatures; hence they are vulnerable to being stressed with temperature extremes. If the location has changing temperatures or the plant is exposed to drafts, then you can expect wilting or dropping to take place. Therefore, put the plant in a cool place which remains constant and does not have heating or cooling vents.
How to Propagating a Christmas Cactus
One of the great advantages of having a Christmas Cactus is how simple it is to propagate new plants. Here’s how you can spread the joy by sharing with friends and family—or keep the new plants for yourself!
1. Take a Cutting: Snip off a short segment of 2–3 leaf segments from a healthy plant.
2. Allow the Cutting to Heal: Place the cuttings in a cool, dry place and allow the edges to callus over for 1–2 days.
3. Plant in Soil: Insert the cutting about an inch deep in damp, well-draining potting soil.
4. Provide Proper Conditions: Keep the new plant in a bright, humid environment and water when the soil feels dry.
Conclusion
The cactus is a beautiful and relatively easy-to-care-for plant that brings color and joy to homes during the holiday season. Whether you’re growing one for its stunning blooms or as a safe, non-toxic option for a household with pets, this plant is a great choice for any plant lover. By understanding its specific care needs—such as light, temperature, watering, and fertilizing—you can ensure your Christmas cactus thrives year after year.