The Easter cactus is often confused with the similar-looking Christmas cactus. However, they are two different plants that are only distantly related to each other. The jointed cacti have nothing to do with the festivals to which they owe their name.
What are the differences between Christmas and Easter cactus?
To distinguish the Christmas cactus from the Easter cactus, pay attention to the shape of the cactus limbs (serrated or smooth) and the shape of the flowers (elongated in “tiers” or star-shaped). In addition, Christmas cacti bloom in winter and Easter cacti in spring, although this can be influenced.
Is flowering time a sure distinguishing feature?
One distinguishing feature of these cacti is the flowering time, but this is quite unreliable. Basically, the Christmas cactus blooms in the winter, around Christmas time, and the Easter cactus blooms in the spring, around Easter, as the names suggest. However, some plants bloom at inopportune times or even twice a year.
You can also influence the flowering time, namely through temperature and light. Without winter dormancy, 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 winter rest, you will also influence the flowering period.
How do I distinguish the Easter cactus from the Christmas cactus?
Reliable distinguishing criteria are the flower shape and the leaf or limb shape. The flowers of the Easter cactus are star-shaped, while those of the Christmas cactus are elongated, with petals in several “tiers”. Depending on the species, these flowers can grow up to seven centimeters long. By the way, the Easter cactus does not tolerate a change of location during the flowering period. It's better to wait until the flowering is over.
The cactus limbs (you can also call them leaves) of the two plants also 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 shady place, otherwise it may soon lose its leaves.
Distinguishing features of jointed cacti:
- Shape of the cactus limbs: smooth or wavy or jagged
- regular flowering time: winter or spring (but can be influenced)
- Flower shape: star-shaped or in “tiers”
Tip
No matter whether you own a Christmas or Easter cactus, both types are very decorative and flowery, as well as being easy to care for.
