Zygocactus, also known as Thanksgiving Cactus, is often mistaken for the Christmas Cactus, but they are not the same plant. While they belong to the same botanical family, their blooming periods and physical characteristics differ.
The true Christmas Cactus, scientifically known as Schlumbergera x buckleyi, typically blooms a few weeks after the Thanksgiving Cactus. This means that while the Thanksgiving Cactus blooms in late November, around the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States, the Christmas Cactus blooms in December, closer to the Christmas season.
One of the key distinguishing features between the two plants is the texture of their stems. The Christmas Cactus has smooth edges on its fleshy stems, giving it a more rounded appearance. In contrast, the Thanksgiving Cactus has toothed or serrated edges on its stem segments, which are more angular in shape.
To further differentiate between the two, it’s helpful to examine their flowers. The Christmas Cactus typically produces flowers that hang down, while the Thanksgiving Cactus has flowers that point more upwards. The flowers of both plants come in a range of colors, including shades of pink, red, white, and even purple.
In terms of care, both the Christmas Cactus and Thanksgiving Cactus require similar conditions. They are both native to the rainforests of Brazil, so they prefer bright but indirect light, moderate humidity, and well-draining soil. It’s important to water them thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the blooming period, it’s important to avoid major temperature fluctuations to ensure optimal flower production.
Personal Experience: I have had the pleasure of owning both the Christmas Cactus and the Thanksgiving Cactus, and I must say, they are both stunning plants to have in your collection. The vibrant colors of their flowers bring a festive and cheerful atmosphere to any space. I have found that they are relatively low-maintenance plants, requiring minimal attention once you establish a care routine that suits their needs.
While the Zygocactus, commonly referred to as the Thanksgiving Cactus, may be mistakenly marketed as a Christmas Cactus, they are two distinct plants. The Thanksgiving Cactus blooms in late November, has toothed edges on its stems, and its flowers point upwards. On the other hand, the true Christmas Cactus blooms in December, has smooth-edged stems, and its flowers hang down. Both plants require similar care and can be delightful additions to your indoor garden.
