In fact, these epiphytic succulents are native to the tropical rainforests of southern Brazil, where they grow on tree branches and soak up the high humidity, dappled sunlight, and warm temperatures. Most species of Schlumbergera have stems which resemble leaf-like pads joined one to the other and flowers which appear from areolesat the joints and tips of the stems. [3], The genus is one of a small number belonging to a group of cacti classified as the tribe Rhipsalideae. The earliest English common name was "Christmas cactus". Allow the soil to dry almost completely between waterings—you will know if the soil is too dry when the leaves start to pucker and shrivel. [21] S. microsphaerica is found at higher altitudes, above 2,200 metres (7,200 ft),[18] in barren rocky habitats,[20] and tolerates higher light levels. In most species the segments are strongly flattened (cladodes), being made up of a central core with two (or more rarely three) "wings". noun. [25], In the United States, cultivars are propagated in large numbers for sale before Thanksgiving Day (the fourth Thursday in November). Like other Schlumbergera species, it is native to Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte in rainforests, mainly on trees or shrubs but sometimes in shady places among rocks. [31] "Link cactus" is another common name, describing the way that the stems of the genus as a whole are made up of linked segments. [23], Schlumbergera truncata was in cultivation in Europe by 1818, and S. russelliana was introduced in 1839. Treatments which induced mutations were also used. [4] This confusion extended to Schlumbergera, whose complicated taxonomic history has been detailed by McMillan and Horobin. The flowers produce nectar in a chamber at the base of the floral tube. David Hunt describes collecting specimens in conditions of cloud, drizzle and overnight temperatures down to −4 °C (25 °F). They are native to the coastal mountains of South East Brazil. Ah, the Christmas cactus. If you want to identify yours, see the identification tips here. Unlike other cacti, the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi) and its relatives don’t live in hot, arid environments such as deserts or plains. If you purchase a plant that is labeled Christmas Cactus it is very likely not S. x buckleyi. Adding to the intrigue, the Christmas cactus origin is steeped in sultry, tropical temperatures in the country of Brazil. Soil: Cactus and succulent soil is great for a Schlumbergera.. Light: Christmas cacti will adapt to low light conditions but will produce better … In Europe, where plants are largely produced for sale in the period before Christmas, this remains the most widely used common name in many languages for cultivars of all groups (e.g. in the southernmost part of the tropics. Many cultivars were selected seedlings of S. truncata, but at least three S. × buckleyi hybrids were available, of which one, now called S. 'Buckleyi', is thought to be the original Christmas cactus. they have no species not moved into Schlumbergera):[8], The case of Epiphyllum is complex. Christmas cactus, popular cactus that is grown for its colorful flowers, blooming indoors about Christmastime in the Northern Hemisphere. Christmas cactus (schlumbergera bridgesii) is a genus of cactus plants that have about 6-9 species. [3] Plants grow at altitudes from 700 metres (2,300 ft) in the case of S. truncata to 2,780 metres (9,120 ft) in the case of S. microsphaerica,[18] either in the coastal moist forests or in rocky areas. Stems and roots can be rotted by diseases caused by fungi and similar organisms; these include infections by species of Fusarium (a fungus), and Phytophthora and Pythium (both water moulds). In some species the difference between the outer and inner tepals creates the appearance of a "flower within a flower". [29], When grown as house plants, Schlumbergera cultivars are said to be relatively easy to care for. Lemaire renamed it Schlumbergera epiphylloides (under the current rules of botanical nomenclature it should have been called Schlumbergera russelliana, which is its current name). Ring in the new year with a Britannica Membership, This article was most recently revised and updated by, https://www.britannica.com/plant/Christmas-cactus. It has rounded leaf lobes and flower coloring varying from pink and purple to white and red varieties. Christmas Cactus. Self-Aerating so air always … [3], In most species, the many stamens are arranged in two series, with the inner stamens being fused at the base to form a short tubular structure and the outer stamens arising from along the floral tube. Although he later placed it back in Epiphyllum, abandoning Zygocactus, the generic name Zygocactus continued to be widely used. These epiphytes (a plant that grows on top of another plant … It usually grows as an epiphyte and is native to rainforests in Brazil. The Easter cactus, formerly classified as S. gaertneri, is now referred to as Hatiora gaertneri. The outer tepals – those closer to the base of the flower – are short and unconnected, and spread out or curve backwards. The plant is a hybrid that features flattened spineless stems. Species in the former genus generally have flowers that are zygomorphic with a distinct floral tube, while those in the latter have actinomorphic flowers with inconspicuous tubes. Whether your plant is called a Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter cactus, they each need the same care. Placing Christmas cactus into the east-facing window that receives abundant amounts of sunlight during the day and 12 hours of darkness each night can encourage the plant to flower again. The Christmas cactus is another perfect holiday gift to give to others. The color of cactus flowers depends on the species of the cactus. I have had pieces fall off my plant with buds on them which still root and bloom. In the Japanese tradition of Hanakotoba, giving the gift of a flower from a cactus is a clear way to indicate you’re sexually attracted towards someone due to its connection with lust. Only synonyms which have been widely used (and their basionyms) are given in the list below. [34], Aphids, mealybugs and other invertebrate pests can spread viruses. Birds have been observed removing seeds which had stuck to their beaks by rubbing them on tree branches, where the seeds might be able to germinate. Most species of Schlumbergera have stems which resemble leaf-like pads joined one to the other and flowers which appear from areoles at the joints and tips of the stems. The Christmas cactus has become a firm favourite in recent years, and as an alternative to the traditional Poinsettia, it's easy to see why more of us are opting for a pricklier festive flower. The upper view shows bright red new cladodes forming, the centre shows maturing growth, the lower view shows two aerial roots extending down, In cultivation, these plants have been described as "remarkably free from pests and diseases". [29] The name "crab cactus" (referring to the clawed ends of the stems) is also used for the Truncata Group. Two significant insect pests are aphids on young shoots, buds and flowers, and root mealybugs which attack below soil level. Will be able to watch the tips of the cactus flower can also differ from each in., but a loss of vigour is usual allowing the excess water to run out through the drainage hole,! Christmas cacti your succulent receives dark and cool treatment for at least six to species. 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