Think outside of the box this holiday season. Instead of filling your home with traditional poinsettias, consider choosing a fun Christmas cactus to ring in the season.
The Christmas cactus is known for its flat, oval, pointed disks; its dark green foliage; and its brightly-colored flowers, which range from pink and yellow to orange and red. The festive plants are native to the rain forests of Brazil and don’t resemble the versions you would find in the deserts of Arizona.
Given the timing of its blooming period, the Christmas cactus is a popular hostess gift to give during the holiday season. You can purchase them at flower shops, grocery stores and open markets across North America from late November through the end of December.
Fortunately, you don’t have to have a green thumb to keep the pretty red plant alive. However there are some growing tips you should keep in mind should you want to extend the life of your Christmas cactus:
Temperatures: Christmas cacti should be kept away from extreme temperatures. Don’t place the plant near a fireplace or a drafty window.
Handle with Care: Christmas cacti are delicate and should be handled with care. Don’t attempt to move or jostle the plant around too much, as you can easily break its joints.
Water: While most cacti are drought-tolerant the Christmas version needs to be watered regularly in order to sustain itself. Fill your plant’s pot so that the soil is saturated. If the top one inch of soil is dry to the touch, then you know your plant needs a drink.
Sunlight: Do your Christmas cactus a favor by placing it near indirect sunlight. The plants don’t do well when exposed to direct sun. While you can take your plant outside during the summer months, be sure to place it in the shady spot.
According to plant experts, if a Christmas cactus is properly cared for, it can live for as long as 20 years.
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