So, cater to your cactus in its dotage by refreshing it. Let us know in the comments section below and share your tips! COPYRIGHT © 2021 ASK THE EXPERTS LLC. Propagating Christmas cactus in water the right way. Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera) Schlumbergera truncata and S. × buckleyi are the two species of epiphytic cacti that are both commonly known as Christmas cactus.So called because they flower from late November to late January, they give a wonderful Christmas display or are an ideal Christmas gift. There is nothing inherently wrong with being an old plant, and woody tissue does not detract from its beauty. While the Christmas cactus stems hang down like a pendent, the Thanksgiving cactus has stems that grow upright at … In our Christmas cactus growing guide we discuss how to cultivate this colorful houseplant in your home. Nan Schiller is a writer with deep roots in the soil of southeastern Pennsylvania. They don't really have leaves, but rather flattened pad-like stems joined in segments. Today I will show you how to propagate your Christmas Cactus!! The pads of a Christmas cactus have lobes that are smooth-rounded. Instead, they have fleshy green segments called cladodes that join together to form stems. It’s a snap! Some types of cactus also grow in Mexico, Southwestern United States and the Caribbean. They are sessile (attached to each other, flattened, lobed and truncate, feel smooth, are a bit serrated in their margins, glossy but not glaucous, segmented (those segments are called phylloclades), thick, have hairs coming off of them … For example, this plant is named as Flor de Maio, that means May Flower in Brazil. Repot the plant every three years or so, it does well being slightly pot-bound. The stems will take root after a few weeks. See how to take a section of leaf stem and grow new plants. With wit and hopefully some wisdom, she shares what she’s learned and is always ready to dig into a new project! Most of the plants sold in stores today are hybrids of S. russelliana and S. truncata. The Christmas Cactus is named so because it blooms near the Christmas season when the days are much shorter. Star Cactus with white-yellow to pinkish flowers can be used as a beautiful desktop decoration. Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) was once commonly called the “crab claw cactus” or “crab cactus" before it started being marketed around Turkey Day. The Thanksgiving Cactus is timed to flower in November/December whereas it’s December/January for the Christmas Cactus. With fewer than 10 species in the genus, Schlumbergera is a genus of tropical cacti from Brazil. Their stems are typically flattened, almost leaf-like in appearance, with fewer or even no spines, such as the well-known Christmas cactus or Thanksgiving cactus (in the genus Schlumbergera). Christmas cacti don’t have leaves. Schlumbergera plants are indigenous to … 101 Facts, Cactus Types. Once they have healed, place them in a well-draining container of moist, organically-rich potting medium, where they will soon grow roots and establish themselves. The answer is no. Let’s find out. The Christmas cactus’s scientific name is Schlumbergera. With proper care, a plant may become … How to propagate Christmas cactus The procedure of planting a Christmas cactus You begin the process by cutting a short Y-shaped segment from the stem tips. Remember that it is missing the humid air and moist soil of the tropical forests. With proper care, this cactus can also bloom in the fall and spring. Christmas Cactus – Begins growing upright but as it matures the stems are pendent arching down. All are hardy in USDA zones 10-12 and have the same environmental needs and diseases. Each “leaf” is comprised of segmented sections. The common Christmas cactus ( S. × buckleyi ), blooming about Christmastime in the Northern Hemisphere, is a hybrid of these two species. Mature size: 1-6 inches. Differences in the general shape of the Holiday Cactus. Stem rot – Basal stem rot, which generally develops in cool, damp soil, is easily recognized by the formation of a brown, water-soaked spot at the base of the stem. Instead, they have fleshy green segments called cladodes that join together to form stems. The categories of Christmas cactus may be known under different names such as Thanksgiving or Easter cactus. Hanging from a basket and well cared for, these stems may reach up to 3 feet in length. The Thanksgiving Cactus has little spine-like notches coming off its leaves (just like a crab claw hence that common name) whereas the leaves of the Christmas Cactus are smoother. Genus Schlumbergera. Flowering season is the main reason for it is known with these names. However, if yours has grown to huge proportions, there could be problems. To do this, simply find a few healthy green sections at least two segments long, and snip them off with clean pruning shears. Shop Fairy Castle Cactus. Even if you don’t need to repot, you may still want to trim each stem by one-third to relieve the plant of excessive weight. If desired, root the stem sections you pruned off the plant to create more Christmas cacti. Several species are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red…. When a stem splits, it creates an open wound that is vulnerable to diseases such as bacterial soft rot, caused by Pectobacterium carotovorum, particularly in hot, humid environments. The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera) is one of the most popular flowering plants in the Christmas season because of its lush green and exotic flowers. Mr. Brunelle, a highly respected cacti and succulent horticulturist, states: The roots growing from Christmas cactus are actually aerial roots that help the plant cling to its host. It also goes by zygocactus. Many of these grow on trees or rocks, resulting in their trailing and long-stemmed nature. Pinch or cut off a few segments on each stem. Both Don’t let it become severely rootbound or collapse beneath its own weight. Some people love to call it the crab cactus thanks to its leaf-shaped stem segments that feature curved pointed teeth along the edges. There is an interesting variety of different cacti that thrive in drier areas. The "leaves" of a Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) are technically not leaves: they are cladodes, a type of stem. Schlumbergera plants favor tight living quarters, so roots that are somewhat snug in the pot are not usually a problem. If you found this article informative and would like to learn more about Christmas cactus cultivation, check out these guides next: © Ask the Experts, LLC. Fertilizer for Christmas Cactus plants only need applied at a rate of once monthly and only from Spring through Summer so just a few months out of the year. They have elongated segments with rounded ends or very small tips on each stem segment end. In the case of an older cactus, while there may be a proliferation of green growth cascading over the side of the pot, a peek into the center of the plant is likely to reveal a forest of thick, hard brown stems. Learn more about the physical characteristics and species of the genus. Unearth the cactus and rinse it thoroughly, roots and all. You can also pinch a stem from a Christmas cactus plant. Christmas cactus (scientifically known as Schlumbergera x buckleyi) is a hybrid succulent plant that resulted from crossing Schlumbergera truncata (Thanksgiving cactus) and Schlumbergera russelliana by William Buckley in England, in the 1840s. Buds form on the terminal end of the stem. Another issue with an older plant that has grown quite large is the potential for it to break apart. They have elongated segments with rounded ends or very small tips on each stem segment end. This plant comes from the mountains of Brazil, and, unlike the typical desert cactus, it grows in a cascading shape. GARDENER'S PATH® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF ASK THE EXPERTS LLC. Daytime temperatures should average around 70°F. Each section must consist of two or three joined segments. form a strategic partnership called N.C. Penn State University Extension experts provide a handy fact sheet that outlines the plant diseases that most often affect Christmas Cacti. Christmas cactus always blooms around late winter to early spring. And if you haven’t repotted in many years, the potting medium is likely to be depleted of essential nutrients. There are relatively few natural species of Schlumbergera and the vast array of colors in the many cultivars and hybrids on the market today result primarily from the parentage of a true species, S. truncata and an early hybrid known as S . Propagating Christmas Cactus. Just remove two or three stem segments with a sharp knife and let it callous over for a few days. These types bloom in a span of between three and four years after they sprout. It’s a snap! Christmas cactus is a striking plant with bright pink or red blooms that add some festive color around the winter holidays. The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) is one of three holiday cacti grown in homes. S. kautskyi, S. opuntioïdes, S. orssichiana, and S. microsphaerica have rounded stem segments but bear similar flowers. The nice thing about it: It is not only easy to care for and frugal, but is also super easy to … In Brazil, the genus is referred to as Flor de Maio (May flower), reflecting the period in which they flower in the Southern Hemisphere. A broken stem roots best if it has at least three to five jointed segments. About Christmas Cacti. Today I will show you how to propagate your Christmas Cactus!! Why are the leaves on my Christmas cactus limp? In the summer it will need some shade or the leaves will yellow out. Rots, including basal stem rot and root rot, are the most common problems affecting Christmas cactus. The Thanksgiving cactus has more-pointed teeth along the edges of the leaves. These sections can be rooted to propagate new plants. All are hardy in USDA zones 10-12 and have the same environmental needs and diseases. NC State University and N.C. A&T State University work in tandem, along with federal, state and local governments, to This article zeroes in on one particular characteristic: woody stems. The "leaves" of a Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) are technically not leaves: they are cladodes, a type of stem. RE-BLOOMING Christmas cactus will bloom if given long, uninterrupted dark periods (12 hours each night). A Christmas cactus has flat-shaped, glossy-green segments that make up its hanging branches. Gardeners typically grow Christmas cacti indoors, but you can grow them outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. No matter the type of cactus plant you have, be it Christmas or Thanksgiving, they will most likely brighten your home. Flowers are zygomorphic (meaning if you cut them in half, you get 2 equal parts), showy, colorful, tube-like, perfect (have stamen and pistil), composed of tepals (since it is hard to tell what is a petal or sepal, people tend to say tepals) that form a corolla (just meaning that all the tepals look like one single part instead of separate parts), have pericarpel (the part below the pistil and above the stem), and tend to bloom in early winter (hence, it's name Christmas cactus as it generally blooms around Christmas time). Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. The genus of Schlumbergera is commonly called as Christmas cactus, Thanksgiving cactus, Holiday cactus or Crab cactus. This variation of holiday cactus has very flat stems and broad leaves that have rounded indentations. Christmas cactus is relatively easy to grow, so if you notice Christmas cactus leaves dropping off, you’re justifiably mystified and concerned about the health of your plant. It can be up to 30 centimeters tall and 45 centimeters in diameter. Each cut segment will soon sprout new growth for a rejuvenated appearance, and better nutrient uptake. With proper care, a plant may become a family heirloom, often living for 20 years or more. This article aims to guide you through the common types of Christmas cactus bugs and how to be rid of them forever. Look closely at the stem sections of the cactuses. Cooperative Extension prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and veteran status. Ironic, isn’t it? You'll want to share the love & give a piece or 2 of your Christmas Cactus away. The Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera Bridgesii) Christmas cactus plants are very similar to Thanksgiving cactus; in fact, they are often mistaken for them, but there are differences that appear mainly with the stems, leaves, and the blooming period. You can tell them apart because the Thanksgiving Cactus has claw-like appendages on its flat stems (or cladophylls) that resemble crab claws, hence of of its other common names Crab Cactus. Plant it in a good draining succulent potting mix and place it in a warm room (57-72 degrees Fahrenheit) that receives bright light in the winter and high humidity. Hardiness zone: 8-10. Here is more about what we do. A Christmas cactus is an epiphyte and keeping it indoors alive requires very different conditions as compared to a desert cactus or other houseplants. Christmas cactus leaves are smooth with scalloped edges. Whether you’re a person or a plant, getting older is just what happens when you’re in good health. While the Christmas cactus stems hang down like a pendent, the Thanksgiving cactus has … A Christmas cactus is an epiphyte and keeping it indoors alive requires very different conditions as compared to a desert cactus or other houseplants. In the event that your plant breaks or splits, and especially if the foliage and roots have become mushy or malodorous, there may still be time to act. It turns out all three in my home are the Thanksgiving kind. Growing a Christmas Cactus Christmas cacti are native to humid, jungle-type woodlands, and often grow attached to a tree. The true Christmas cactus has a flattened stem segments with smooth, scalloped edges. It easily propagates through stem cuttings. What kind of cactus live in the desert? Her background includes landscape and floral design, a BS in business from Villanova University, and a Certificate of Merit in floral design from Longwood Gardens. They grow in zones 10-12 and outside of that work best as houseplants. What Does a Christmas Cactus Look Like? The whole stem makes a bit of a Y shape. Just like other types of cacti, Christmas cactus propagation requires cutting its stem. That means, watering Christmas Cactus can be … Two issues that may arise are: a rootbound pot and splitting stems. Celebrate your Christmas cactus. There is a lot of confusion surrounding the holiday cacti: Christmas cactus, Thanksgiving cactus, and Easter cactus. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Reduced flowering or dropping of flower buds can be from inadequate dark hours (at least 13 uninterrupted hours), sudden temperature, moisture, or light changes. Flowers: The flowers of the Christmas cactus are usually white or pink and bloom in December.But don’t be surprised if you also see blooms between March and May on these plants. In a nutshell, the appearance of large woody stems is just that – a sign that yours has achieved old age. How to Spot Southern Blight Disease in Amaryllis Plants, Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme: A Love Story, USDA Plant Hardiness Zones Have Changed: What You Need to Know, How to Collect Hellebore Seeds for Plant Propagation, Growing Plants 101: The Complete Guide to Getting Started, How to Grow Asian Persimmon Trees (Diospyros kaki). The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgessii) is a must-have with its flat roundish segmented stems that produce tubular flower blooms of white, purple, red, yellow, orange, and pink. This tough epiphytic succulent has showy flowers that bloom in the winter, usually around Thanksgiving, hence the most popular common name Thanksgiving Cactus. It is commonly called Christmas cactus because it blooms during the holidays. Informational table showing disease name, symptoms, pathogen/cause, and management of Christmas cactus diseases. Similarly, the plant may develop aerial roots because it is reaching out to find more water or nutrients. If you are lucky it will bloom a second time as the days lengthen in February. Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) is not a cactus of the type typically associated with sometimes-cold desert climates. The true Christmas cactus has a flattened stem segments with smooth, scalloped edges. Take note that the Fairy Castle Cactus rarely produces flowers—they're often sold with artificial blooms attached. The blooms on this cactus are erect and do not hang down like the flowers on Schlumbergera x buckleyi. In the Northern Hemisphere, they are called Christmas cactus, Thanksgiving cactus, crab cactus and holiday cactus. Flowers anthocyanin hued, apex strongly oblique. Water the plant deeply whenever the top 1 to 2 inches of potting soil feels dry to the touch. Unlike typical desert cactus, Christmas cactus is a tropical plant that grows in the Brazilian rainforest.The cactus is easy to grow and a cinch to propagate, but Christmas cactus has some unusual attributes that may cause you to wonder what’s going on with your plant. This is a very simple and easy propagation and takes very little effort! x buckleyi. It is also known by many other common names and is sometimes confused with the true Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi). Lay them on a paper towel for a few days to heal and form a callus at the point where they were cut. Easter cactus, which has buds in February and blooms around Easter. Christmas cactus is Schlumbergera bridgesii (synonym buckleyi) and Thanksgiving cactus is Schlumbergera truncata. This means that they do best in a semi-shade position, out of direct light. S. truncata fingers or cutting with a sharp knife and let it become severely rootbound collapse... 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