Christmas Cactus vs. Thanksgiving Cactus: What the Schlumbergera?

The Christmas cactus blooms in December, whereas the Thanksgiving cactus blooms the month prior. Menno van der Haven / Shutterstock

At first glance, the Christmas cactus vs. Thanksgiving cactus debate might seem trivial. But for houseplant lovers and holiday decorators, knowing the difference between these popular holiday cacti is key to enjoying their vibrant blooms during the festive season.

Both are members of the Schlumbergera genus, and both bring stunning displays to your home—just not at the same time.

Contents

Key Differences Between Thanksgiving and Christmas Cacti
Caring for Holiday Cactus Plants
Bloom Time and Temperature Needs
Placement and Growth Habit

Key Differences Between Thanksgiving and Christmas Cacti

The main difference lies in the bloom time and shape of the stem segments.

Thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) typically blooms in November, around the Thanksgiving holiday. Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera × buckleyi) usually follows a few weeks later, blooming in late December.

Stem shape offers another clear clue. Thanksgiving cactus has pointed, claw-like edges on its segments, while Christmas cactus has more rounded, scalloped edges.

These shapes affect not just appearance but also growth habit: Thanksgiving cacti have a more upright growth habit, while Christmas cacti tend to arch and spill over hanging baskets.

Caring for Holiday Cactus Plants

Holiday cacti thrive in bright light but not direct sunlight. They prefer well-draining soil and should be watered only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in cooler temperatures.

To encourage blooming, reduce watering and stop fertilizing in early fall. Place the plant in a location with cooler nighttime temperatures and high humidity. These conditions mimic their native environment and help trigger flower buds.

Bloom Time and Temperature Needs

Thanksgiving cactus blooms earlier, often in response to slightly cooler temperatures in early fall. Christmas cactus needs cooler nighttime temperatures and longer dark periods to initiate buds, which is why it typically blooms closer to the winter solstice.

Easter cactus—another member of the holiday cacti family—blooms in early spring and requires similar care, though it's less common in home collections.

Placement and Growth Habit

Both types of cacti can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 12, but they're more commonly kept as indoor plants. Christmas and Thanksgiving cacti do well in hanging baskets, where their growth habit can shine.

For the best results, provide bright but indirect light, evenly moist soil, and warm temperatures during the growing season. During late fall and winter, cooler temps and a bit of neglect can help set the stage for an impressive bloom.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.