The Difference Between Christmas & Thanksgiving
The holiday season is upon us, and many retailers are selling Christmas Cacti. However, it's important to distinguish whether they are truly Christmas Cacti or Thanksgiving Cacti. Here are some key differences to help you identify them:
Leaf Shapes:
- Thanksgiving Cactus: Features pointed, claw-like, or jagged edges on its stem segments.
- Christmas Cactus: Has smooth, scalloped, flat stem segments.
Bloom Time:
- Thanksgiving Cactus: Typically blooms from late October through November.
- Christmas Cactus: Usually blooms from late November to late January.
Growth Habit:
- Thanksgiving Cactus: Grows in a more upright manner.
- Christmas Cactus: Exhibits a more cascading growth habit.
It's worth noting that Christmas Cacti are quite rare and difficult to find. Most stores marketing Holiday or Christmas Cacti are actually selling Thanksgiving Cacti that have been manipulated into blooming later. Growers adjust the light and dark cycles to trick the plants into blooming at different times.
Whether you have a Christmas Cactus or a Thanksgiving Cactus, their care is quite similar:
Light: Provide bright, indirect light and avoid direct sunlight.
Temperature: Keep indoor temperatures between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Steer clear of drafts, heat vents, and fireplaces.
Water: Water the plant when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch, and do not let it sit in water.
With these guidelines, you can successfully care for your cacti during the holidays!