HomeChristmas cactus is one of the most popular flowering plants around the holiday season. It is an easy plant to grow and could last for generations.
I used to have a small plant, given to me when I worked at the Bradley Hospital, in the '70s and '80, that lasted about 20 years, practically without any attention, except for a little water on occasions.
The Christmas cactus belongs in the genus schlumbergera and Cactaceae family. It is the native of South America.
Many modern holiday cactus cultivars are hybrids.
The Christmas Cactus I picked up this year is red, not the usual fuchsia color I had preferred in the past. I actually purchased it, on an impulse, almost 2 weeks ago, tempted by profusions of red tubular buds and smooth green leaves with reddish tints.
I have also opted for a hanging basket, instead of the one in a regular container.
This morning, upon my return from a Thanksgiving holiday, I was surprised by the sight of spectacular red and white blooms. They were just tiny buds a week ago.
Christmas is still more than 3 weeks away. I hope the blooms will last until then.
