EASTER CACTUS (Zygocactus)
Holiday cacti are distinguished from each other by their leaf margins.
Christmas cactus are identified from other blooming holiday cactus by their
rounded or scalloped leaf margins. Thanksgiving and Easter cacti have pointed
margins. Under normal conditions, the holiday cacti will bloom close to
the holiday suggested in their name. (Northern Hemisphere)
Flowering cacti should be kept in bright, indirect light. Too much light
can cause flower color to fade. Day temperature of 70 degrees F. and evening
temperatures of 60- 65 degrees F. are considered ideal. Avoid overwatering
during flowering. Do not fertilize when plants are flowering.
Once flowers fall, continue to grow the plant as a houseplant. Soil
should be loose; a sandy soil will limit overwatering problems. Fertilize
monthly between April and October.
Holiday cacti are short day plants, meaning they bloom when nights are
long. Plants will also flower if exposed to prolonged cool temperatures
between 50-55 degrees F.
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Information.
Christmas Cactus
Zygocactus Schlumbergera truncata is known in the Southern Hemisphere
as the Christmas Cactus. It flowers in pinks and reds, requires bright
but not strong sunlight, medium watering with good drainage. Looks wonderful
in a hanging basket. Propagate from cuttings after flowering. The plant
is an epiphyte from southeast Brazil's jungles.
