The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgessii) is a close relative of other Holiday cacti such as the Thanksgiving (Schlumbergera truncatus) and Easter (Rhipsalidopsis gaertnerii) cacti; as such the common Holiday cactus cultivar is often a hybrid of Schlumbergera truncata and Schlumbergera russelliana. This particular hybrid of Christmas cactus evolved in England about 150 years ago. However, its native origins are in Brazil, South America.
The Origins of the Christmas Cactus
Christmas cacti were originally ephiphyte forest cacti, that is they attach themselves or grow on another living plant. The tropical cacti grow between 1000 and 1700 meters above sea level in the Organ mountains, north of Rio de Janeiro and are unlike traditional desert cacti; the Christmas cactus does not have the modified spines of regular cacti. It can usually been found in the trees of Brazil and is called Flor de maio (May Flower).
The Christmas cactus is of the botanical plant family Cactaceae. It has flat stems called cladodes, which resemble leaves, although they are not; traditionally the cactus has deep red flowers, although it also blooms in various colors of cream, purple, orange and pink. The joints of the plant are fragile and break easily. The Christmas cactus is also known as the Orchid cactus, as it is found in similar habitats to orchids.
Use of the Christmas Cactus
The Christmas cactus is synonymous with Christmas; however, in some countries it takes a more prominent role. Various Christmas plants have different uses in different countries, for example Holly (Ilex) was used in winter festivals by the ancient Romans. In hot countries such as Australia, Africa and Latin America, the Christmas cactus can replace the role of the traditional Christmas fir tree, which is not a native of these countries, and, as such, is decorated at Christmas.
How to Grow and Care for a Christmas Cactus
Growing a Christmas cactus from a cutting is relatively easy; the cutting should be placed in a plant pot about a quarter of its length deep and, by keeping the soil moist, it should begin to grow in a couple of weeks. The Christmas cactus is not tolerant of a lot of water and only requires enough water to keep it moist.
The Christmas cactus also does not like direct sunlight, as it may suffer burnt leaves and stunted growth; proper care of a Christmas cactus can result in many years of life. Flowers will appear on a Christmas cactus when it has experienced temperatures of 10 to 14 degrees centigrade for about six to eight weeks.
Christmas cacti thrive in the tropical habitat in which they are indigenous; therefore, creating a similar environment will ensure a long life for a transplanted or hybrid Holiday cactus. A humidity of 50 to 60 per cent is ideal for a Christmas cactus; placing a glass of water next to the cactus will give it the humidity it needs, as the water evaporates.
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