The Easter cactus is often confused with the similar-looking Christmas cactus. However, they are two different plants that are only distantly related. The articulated cacti have nothing to do with the festivals to which they owe their name.

The flowering time in particular distinguishes the Easter cactus from the Christmas cactus

Is flowering time a sure differentiator?

A distinguishing feature of these cacti is the flowering time, but this is quite unreliable. Basically, the Christmas cactus blooms in winter, around Christmas time, and the Easter cactus in spring, around Easter, as the names suggest. However, some plants bloom at the "untimely" or even twice a year.

You can also influence the flowering time with temperature and light. Without hibernation, your Easter cactus will not bloom. It needs at least four weeks with little light and a temperature of around 12°C to 15°C. If you change the time or duration of this hibernation, you will also influence the flowering time.

How do I tell the Easter cactus apart from the Christmas cactus?

Safe distinguishing criteria are the shape of the flower and the shape of the leaf or limbs. The flowers of the Easter cactus are star-shaped, while those of the Christmas cactus are oblong, with petals in several "tiers". Depending on the species, these flowers can grow up to seven centimeters long. Incidentally, the Easter cactus does not tolerate a change of location during the flowering period. Better to wait until the flowering is over.

The cactus parts (you can also call them leaves) of the two plants have a different shape. While the leaves of the Christmas cactus are jagged, the Easter cactus has relatively smooth rounded to oval limbs that may be a little wavy but never jagged.

If the leaves have a slightly reddish hue, then your plant is probably getting too much sun. Place your Easter cactus in a slightly more shady place, otherwise it may soon lose its leaves.

Distinctive features in articulated cacti:

  • Shape of the cactus limbs: smooth or wavy or jagged
  • regular flowering period: winter or spring (but can be influenced)
  • Flower shape: star-shaped or in "tiers"

tips

Regardless of whether you call a Christmas or Easter cactus your own, both types are very decorative and floriferous, and also easy to care for.

Category:

Vegetable garden