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False christmas cactus
Also known as: Christmas cactus, Holiday cactus
False christmas cactus gets its name from its flowering season; producing red purple pink or white flowers from fall to winter. Native to a small coastal strip on the east of Brazil this cactus prefers the shade and humidity of jungle conditions. In the wild hummingbirds pollinate the flowers.
Scientific classification
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Perennial
Lifespan
Succulent, Shrub
Plant Type
Early spring, Winter
Bloom Time
20 cm to 60 cm
Plant Height
30 cm to 60 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
4 cm to 6 cm
Flower Size
Purple
Fruit Color
Pink, Red, White, Orange, Purple, Yellow, Gold
Flower Color
Green, Pink, Red, Purple
Stem Color
Non-dormant
Dormancy
Evergreen
Leaf type
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Fall, Winter
Growth Season

Images of False christmas cactus

Distribution of False christmas cactus

Distribution Map
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
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Forests
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use
False christmas cactus is prized in particular for its early winter blooms, used in gardens and home landscaping to bring some seasonal cheer. Suitable for rock gardens and container gardens, this plant pairs well with other tropical blooms and ornamental species like bromeliads.
Symbolism
Great luck, longevity
Interesting Facts
The stem of the false christmas cactus is often too long and drapes, so it is often made into a hanging orchid for decoration. The flower is bright and lovely, suitable for decorating windowsills, entrances, and exhibition halls. It fills the space with brightness and liveliness. It blooms on Christmas and New Year is Day and so it is named the "Christmas Cactus" by Christian areas of the world. However, some are regulated to bloom in fall with the help of different cultivation methods.
Name Story
Thanksgiving cactus: When Thanksgiving is right around the corner, it begins to blossom secretly as if to celebrate the coming of Thanksgiving. Hence, people call him Thanksgiving cactus.
Crab cactus: When you see its fleshy leaves, you must feel that the plant looks familiar. That's because its special claw-shaped stem segment looks like the crab's feet with distinct knots. That's why it's called Crab cactus.
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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.
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Care Guide for False christmas cactus

Every 2-3 weeks
Water
Partial sun
Sunlight
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Succulent & Cactus Soil
Soil Type
Water: False christmas cactus thrives in high humidity found in tropical rainforests and requires balanced watering every 2-3 weeks. As an evergreen, it retains leaves year-round, necessitating careful water monitoring even during colder months.
Fertilize: Fertilize false christmas cactus with half-strength cacti fertilizer every 2-4 weeks in spring and summer to enhance flowering and health. Reduce feeding in fall and winter during its rest period, and follow fertilizer package instructions to avoid over-fertilization and root burn.
Pruning: In spring, cut back false christmas cactus to promote fuller growth and flowering at the cuts. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to prevent stem damage.
Propagation: False christmas cactus can be propagated by cuttings from a healthy parent plant using a clean implement. Allow cuttings to callous for a few days before planting in well-draining soil. Water gently to prevent rot; rooting typically occurs within weeks followed by regular care.
Repotting: Repot false christmas cactus biennially after blooming in spring, using a slightly larger pot. Ensure roots are slightly bound. Provide indirect light and slight moisture post-repotting, and resume regular watering after acclimation, typically within 2-4 weeks, to support growth.
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