Contents
What does Thanksgiving cactus look like?
Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) typically blooms between mid-November and late December, sometimes through January. Its leaf segments are square shaped with pointed hooks on one end and along the sides like pincers, giving rise to its common name “crab cactus”.
What is the difference between a Christmas cactus Thanksgiving cactus and Easter cactus?
The Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) has leaf projections that are more scalloped or teardrop-shaped. Finally, the Easter Cactus (Hatiora gaertneri, formerly known as Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri) has very rounded edges centralized on the leaf. All of these three cacti are known as short-day plants.
Is a Thanksgiving cactus a cactus?
Schlumbergera truncata is the Thanksgiving cactus. It is called a leaf cactus but is not a true cactus. Rather it is an epiphyte, those plants which live on other plants. Whatever type of plant it is, the Thanksgiving holiday cactus is a proven winner, with blooms that last for 2 to 4 months and an easy-going nature.
Why is it called a Thanksgiving cactus?
The genus was named after a Belgian horticulturist, Frederick Schlumberger. Schlumbergera are hybrids and have slightly different blooming times. If a particular plant blooms in November, it’s a ‘Thanksgiving’ cactus.
How many times a year does a Thanksgiving cactus bloom?
Each one blooms during the season for which it is named – Easter cactus, Christmas Cactus and Thanksgiving cactus. These attractive holiday plants can be found in all the big box stores around the holidays each year and are often given as gifts to gardeners.
Should you deadhead a Christmas cactus?
While not necessary for all cacti since some cactus flowers drop from the plant once they are spent, deadheading cactus flowers can promote additional blooms and encourage growth while also tidying up the cactus. Deadheading can be done throughout the growing season while the Christmas cactus is in bloom.
How can you tell if a Christmas cactus is a Thanksgiving cactus?
Rub your finger along the edge of a leaf segment. If you feel a distinct point or claw it is a Thanksgiving Cactus. If you do not feel a point or claw and you also don’t feel anything on the flat end or tip of the leaf it is a Christmas Cactus.
What kind of stem does a Christmas cactus have?
The true Christmas cactus has a flattened stem segments with smooth, scalloped edges. The Thanksgiving cactus has a very toothy stem with two to four pointed teeth.
When does a Christmas cactus start to bloom?
It typically blooms in the spring months of April and May. Thanksgiving Cactus – The flowers are pink, red, white or yellow and they typically bloom in November. The Thanksgiving Cactus anthers are yellow but they are purplish-brown on the Christmas Cactus.
What’s the scientific name for a Thanksgiving cactus?
Thanksgiving cactus. The Thanksgiving cactus goes by the scientific name of Schlumbergera truncata. This type of plant has stems (actually their leaves) growing upright then arching. It is interesting to note that the flowers of this cactus grow horizontally from the tip of the stem.