The zygocactus, also known as the Christmas cactus, is a popular holiday plant. Native to Brazil, the zygocactus has long, flat stems that are covered in sharp spines. The plant blooms in late fall or early winter, producing beautiful pink or red flowers. Although the zygocactus is not a true cactus, it is related to the genus Schlumbergera, which includes the Thanksgiving cactus and the Easter cactus.
No, zygocactus is not a Christmas cactus.
What is the difference between a Zygocactus and a Christmas cactus?
The main difference between zygocactus and Christmas cactus is their bloom time. Zygocactus blooms in November, while Christmas cactus blooms in December. The zygocactus is also known as the Thanksgiving cactus because it blooms around the holiday, while the Christmas cactus blooms around Christmas time.
Zygocactus is a common name for Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata syn Zygocactus truncata). It sells as “Christmas cactus,” “Thankgiving cactus,” and “holiday cactus” at various stores during the holidays. True Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi) is not heavily marketed.
How do you take care of a Christmas cactus Zygocactus
Temperature:
The optimal temperature for a cactus plant is around 65 degrees. If the temperature gets too hot or too cold, it can damage the plant.
Watering:
It is important to keep the soil evenly moist while your cactus is blooming. misting it frequently will help to keep the plant healthy.
Light:
Place the cactus in an east-facing window to get moderate light and some direct sun.
Fertilization:
Apply a high-potassium fertilizer every two weeks once buds form. This will help the plant to grow and bloom properly.
Christmas cactus plants need bright, indirect sun. They’ll burn in direct sunlight, so if you’re placing yours indoors near a west or south-facing window, make sure it’s filtered with a sheer curtain.
How long do zygocactus flowers last?
The Christmas cactus is a beautiful plant that can add a touch of holiday cheer to any home. These plants are relatively easy to care for, and will remain in flower for four to six weeks. Each flower will last six to nine days, so you can enjoy their beauty for a while. After the plant has flowered, you can prune back each stem by pinching off enough sections to achieve a uniform habit.
Holiday cactuses are a type of cactus that can bloom more than once a year. They are typically found in the desert regions of the United States and Mexico. These cactuses are known for their ability to store water in their leaves, which allows them to survive in dry climates. The holiday cactus is a popular plant to have in the home because it is relatively easy to care for and can bloom multiple times per year.
Can Zygocactus go outside?
Christmas cactus can only be grown outdoors year-round in warm climates. In colder climates, the plant will need to be brought indoors during the winter months.
Holiday cacti are a type of cactus that can be placed outside during the summer, but should be kept away from intense heat and direct sunlight. Too much direct light can burn leaves or turn a reddish color. Plants should be brought inside as soon as nighttime temperatures dip below 60 F.
What are the 3 types of Christmas cactus
Thankgiving cacti (Schlumbergera truncata) bloom from late fall to mid-winter and are often mislabeled as Christmas cacti. These cacti are native to the rainforests of Brazil and need bright, indirect light and cool temperatures to bloom.
Christmas cacti (S x buckleyi) bloom from early winter to mid-winter. They are native to the desert regions of Brazil and need warm temperatures and bright, indirect light to bloom.
Easter cacti (S gaertneri) bloom from later winter to mid-spring. They are native to the coastal regions of Brazil and need bright, indirect light and cool temperatures to bloom.
Zygocactus, or Christmas cactus, is a popular houseplant that is relatively easy to care for. Indoors, they should be positioned in bright to medium, indirect light. They may need to be moved in early autumn into lower light conditions to help stimulate flowering. The main thing to avoid is direct sunlight, which can inhibit flowering.
How often should you water a Zygocactus?
Cacti are succulents, meaning they have the ability to store water in their tissue. As a result, they don’t need to be watered as frequently as other plants. Water your cactus every 1-2 weeks, allowing the potting soil to dry out at least half way down between waterings. Expect to water more often when your cactus is in brighter light and less often in lower light.
If you want your Christmas cactus to bloom in time for the holidays, you should start exposing it to cool temperatures (about 50 degrees Fahrenheit to 55 degrees Fahrenheit) at night in early November. This will help the plant to flower in time for Christmas.
Can you use Miracle Grow on Christmas cactus
To ensure your Christmas cactus blooms beautifully, follow these simple tips:
– Plant in Miracle-Gro Cactus, Palm & Citrus Potting Mix
– Water when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil are dry
– Increase humidity around the plant
– Feed from after blooming until fall with Miracle-Gro Succulent Plant Food
Zygocactus are very adaptable and can grow well in a wide range of climates. In Australia, they should be placed in an area with bright, indirect sunlight. An east or west facing window is ideal, but avoid very hot positions.
Will Zygocactus grow in shade?
Zygos can be grown just about anywhere in Australia in dappled or bright shade. In frosty areas they will need some winter protection eg in a shadehouse, up on the verandah or even indoors.
Holiday cacti need more magnesium than most plants. Fertilize them monthly during the growing season with Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) mixed at a ratio of 1 teaspoon per gallon of water. But, don’t apply the fertilizer the same week as the regular fertilizer.
Conclusion
No, zygocactus is not a christmas cactus.
The zygocactus, or Christmas cactus, is a popular holiday plant. While not a true cactus, this plant is related to the cacti family. The zygocactus is native to Brazil and thrives in warm, humid environments. This plant is easily recognizable by its unique shape and colorful flowers. The zygocactus is a popular houseplant and makes a beautiful addition to any home.
