Christmas cactuses - Schlumbergera (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Christmas cactuses

Also known as: Crab cactuses

The christmas cactuses (genus Schlumbergera) are a small group of tropical cacti that look quite different from traditional desert cacti – they sport thick, waxy leaves, lack spines, and have large, showy flowers. These cacti also have the unusual trait of being able to thrive in partial or even full shade. This feature, coupled with their beautiful blooms, makes them popular indoor ornamentals.

Scientific classification

Genus

Christmas cactuses (Schlumbergera)

Family

Cactuses

Order

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Winter

Growth Season

Images of Christmas cactuses

Culture

Symbolism

Strength

Interesting Facts

Legend has it that the immortal Christmas cactus used to be bright and soft. In order to protect it, God put on an armor of hard steel thorns. Every creature intending to hurt it would bleed.

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Species

False christmas cactus Christmas cactus Thanksgiving cactuses 'Thor Wild Cactus Orange'Thanksgiving cactuses 'Red Flame'Christmas cactus Thanksgiving cactuses 'Red'Christmas cactus

Quickly Identify Christmas cactuses

Segmented stem stems with vibrant tubular flowers in pink, red, white, and yellow.

Bilaterally symmetrical flowers with showy tepals, 3 inches (7.5 cm) long, blooming in winter-spring.

Segmented 'leaves' resembling flat green segments, 1.5-3 inches (4-7.5 cm) long, shiny with scalloped edges.

Segmented stem 'Y'-shaped, serrate edges, areoles for flowers, up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) long.

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Care Guide for Christmas cactuses

Every 2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Christmas cactuses originates from tropical rainforests, thriving in high humidity and tolerating brief droughts. It requires watering every two weeks to avoid waterlogging. Preferring filtered light and stable temperatures, christmas cactuses benefits from misting during its active growing season to maintain humidity.

Propagation: Propagation methods for christmas cactuses include stem cuttings and seed sowing. Key factors are indirect light, temperatures (15-21°C), and well-draining, organic-rich soil. For cuttings, let them callus before planting in moist soil, maintaining light moisture until roots establish.

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Learn More About Christmas cactuses

How to Grow and Care

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