Thanksgiving and Christmas CactusBoth Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) and Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) are closely related flowering plants in the Schlumbergera genus. These low maintenance plants are long-lived and are often passed down in families for generations. Both need well-drained soil, bright light but not direct sun and cool nighttime temperatures in the 50°s in the late fall to initiate flowering. The primary differences between Thanksgiving and Christmas Cactus are:Leaves:as shown in the illustration, Thanksgiving Cactus have serrated leaves with sharp, pointed edges. Christmas Cactus have rounded, scalloped leaves.Flowers:there has been much hybridization of Thanksgiving Cactus. Flower colors range from red, pink, yellow, gold, white or purple and often there will be white highlights on the inner petals or throat giving the appearance of a bi-color. Christmas Cactus flowers are usually red.Bloom Season:Thanksgiving Cactus usually start flowering in early November and the bloom season extends into late December. Christmas Cactus usually start flowering in late December and can continue blooming into January or February.Growth Habit:Thanksgiving Cactus tend to have a more upright form. Christmas Cactus stems usually drape downward and over the pot.
Other Resources
Articles:
• Easy-to-Grow Fall Blooming Plants
• Know Your Roots for Optimum Plant Health
• Choosing Containers, Pots and Vessels for your Plants
Videos:• Care & Culture of Christmas Cactus
• Selecting the Best Pot or Container for your Plant