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False christmas cactus

How to identify False christmas cactus (Schlumbergera truncata)

False christmas cactus, also known as Christmas cactus, Holiday cactus

False christmas cactus is a unique succulent with a sprawling habit, characterized by its flat, segmented stems. Distinctively, the margins of these stems feature pointed teeth or claw-like projections. The vibrant flowers are significant for their erect formation, rather than the pendant orientation found in closely related species. Blooming in winter, the flowers offer a splash of color during the colder months. While it thrives in humid conditions, false christmas cactus requires protection from the extreme dryness typical of desert-like environments.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Succulent, Shrub

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify False christmas cactus

1

Segmented stems with pointed teeth or claw-like projections.

2

Erect flowers in vibrant colors, blooming in winter months.

3

Flattened stem segments resembling leaves, 1.2-2.4 inches (3-6 cm) long.

4

Serrated, lobed cladodes with smooth texture and sheen.

5

Branching stem pattern with segments emerging from others.

False christmas cactusFalse christmas cactusFalse christmas cactusFalse christmas cactusFalse christmas cactus

Detailed Traits of False christmas cactus

Leaf Features

The leaf-like structures of false christmas cactus are actually flattened segments of the stem. These segments, often mistaken for leaves, are green and measure about 1.2-2.4 inches (3-6 cm) in length. They are usually smooth with serrated or scalloped edges, and the texture is fleshy and thick, aiding in water retention. Each segment features a central midrib but lacks traditional veins. The bright green color and unique shape make them a distinctive feature of the plant.

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Flower Features

The flowers of false christmas cactus are zygomorphic, strikingly showy, and colorful with a tubular structure. They consist of numerous tepals radiating in a layered arrangement, creating a complex and vibrant appearance. Typically blooming around December, they can re-bloom in February, with each flowering period lasting about five weeks. Found at the stem's terminal ends, the flowers are perfect, containing both stamen and pistil. They grow to approximately 3 inches (7.6 cm) in length, displaying vivid hues that attract pollinators.

False christmas cactus Flower imageFalse christmas cactus Flower imageFalse christmas cactus Flower image
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Stem Features

The stem of false christmas cactus consists of flattened, green cladodes that resemble leaves but are actually sessile and lobed stems. These segmented cladodes have a smooth, glossy texture and are distinctly serrated at the margins. Each segment is thick and features areoles where hair and flowers emerge. The cladodes are not glaucous but have a slight sheen, which, along with their serrated edges, helps distinguish the stem from other species. The stems exhibit a branching pattern with segments growing from the ends of others.

False christmas cactus Stem image
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Key Facts About False christmas cactus

Attributes of False christmas cactus
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Succulent, Shrub
Plant Height
20 cm to 60 cm
Spread
30 cm to 60 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
4 cm to 6 cm
Flower Color
Pink
Red
White
Orange
Purple
Yellow
Gold
Fruit Color
Purple
Stem Color
Green
Pink
Red
Purple
Leaf type
Evergreen
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Scientific Classification of False christmas cactus

Family
Cactuses
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Species
False christmas cactus (Schlumbergera truncata)
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Distribution Map of False christmas cactus

False christmas cactus comes from the wet tropical and subtropical forests of southeastern Brazil. It is also now found in Vietnam. Many cultivars have been developed to be sold as houseplants around the world, and some have been reintroduced to the wild into other areas of Brazil.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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