Holiday Cacti Guide: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter Cacti Differences and Care

Classification and Origins

Two main holiday cacti: Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) and Christmas cactus (S. × buckleyi, a hybrid). Both are epiphytes from Brazil's Organ Mountains.

Distinguishing Features

• Stems: Thanksgiving has pointed lobes; Christmas has rounded lobes.
• Bloom time: Thanksgiving blooms ~6 weeks earlier (around Thanksgiving); Christmas blooms near Christmas.
• Flowers: Thanksgiving anthers are yellow; Christmas anthers are purplish-brown. Christmas ovaries are ribbed; Thanksgiving are smoother.

Propagation

Root 3–4 mature stem segments (phylloclades) in moist peat-based mix. Cover with a plastic bag to increase humidity. Place on sunny windowsill.

Culture

• Soil: well-drained peat-based mix.
• Fertilizer: 20-10-20 at 1 tsp/gal (spring–fall), ½ tsp/gal (winter). Fertilize at every watering; leach monthly.
• Light: 2,000–3,000 foot-candles (east/west window).
• Temperature: 65–74°F for growth.

Flower Induction

Short-day plants: flower when days shorten. Critical photoperiod is longer for Thanksgiving cactus. Can also induce by temperatures below 57°F (regardless of day length) or by providing 13–16 hours of darkness nightly for ~4 weeks.

Conclusion

With attention to their needs, holiday cacti are easy to grow and re-flower yearly.