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Holiday Cactus Differences: Understanding the Different Types of Festive Succulents

As holiday season approaches, many plant enthusiasts are excited to bring home a festive succulent or two to add to their collection. However, with so many different types of holiday cacti on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this article, we will explore the differences between the three most popular holiday cacti: Christmas Cactus, Thanksgiving Cactus, and Easter Cactus.

The Christmas Cactus

A blooming Christmas Cactus in a red pot
A blooming Christmas Cactus in a red pot

The Christmas Cactus, also known as Schlumbergera, is typically sold during the winter months and blooms around Christmas time. This cactus has flat, segmented leaves that are edged with small, rounded teeth. Unlike other cacti, the Christmas Cactus does not have spines. Instead, it has tiny hairs that grow along the edges of its leaves.

To encourage your Christmas Cactus to bloom, make sure it gets plenty of indirect sunlight and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. While it prefers cooler temperatures, it can survive in warmer environments as long as it is not exposed to direct sunlight.

The Thanksgiving Cactus

A blooming Thanksgiving Cactus in a purple pot
A blooming Thanksgiving Cactus in a purple pot

The Thanksgiving Cactus, also known as the Crab Cactus or Schlumbergera truncata, is typically sold during the fall months and blooms around Thanksgiving. This cactus has more pronounced teeth along the edges of its flat, segmented leaves than the Christmas Cactus does. Its flowers tend to be more tube-shaped than those of the Christmas Cactus, and they bloom in a range of colors including pink, white, and red.

To care for your Thanksgiving Cactus, make sure it gets plenty of bright, indirect sunlight and keep the soil consistently moist. It prefers cooler temperatures, but can tolerate warmer ones as long as it is kept out of direct sunlight.

The Easter Cactus

A blooming Easter Cactus in a yellow pot
A blooming Easter Cactus in a yellow pot

The Easter Cactus, also known as Hatiora gaertneri, is typically sold in the spring and blooms around Easter time. This cactus has pointed, claw-like teeth along the edges of its flat, segmented leaves. Like the Thanksgiving Cactus, its flowers tend to be more tube-shaped than those of the Christmas Cactus. The flowers can be found in shades of pink, red, and white.

To care for your Easter Cactus, make sure it gets plenty of bright, indirect sunlight and keep the soil consistently moist. It prefers cooler temperatures, but can tolerate warmer ones as long as it is kept out of direct sunlight.

While all three of these holiday cacti may look similar at first glance, there are subtle differences that set them apart. By understanding the unique characteristics of each plant, you can choose the best one for your home and ensure that it thrives.

holiday cactus, christmas cactus, thanksgiving cactus, easter cactus, succulent, plant care, indoor plants

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