Let  talk about the OTHER  Christmas flowering plants. They may have had to take the back seat to the Famous Poinsettia, but they have a personality and traits all their own. CHRISTMAS CACTUS / HOLIDAY CACTUS

Christmas Cactus in bloom

The common holiday cacti (Thanksgiving Cactus, Christmas Cactus, Easter Cactus) comprise several closely related species and are often called Zygocactus in older works. They are originally forest cacti, growing as epiphytis at elevations between 1000 and 1700 meters (3300 to 5600 feet) above sea level in the Organ Mountains north of Rio de Janeiro in southeast Brazil, South America. In Brazil they are called Flor de Maio (May Flower).

Many modern holiday cactus cultivars are hybrids , first hybridized about 150 years ago in England .

TAKING CARE OF THE CHRISTMAS CACTUS

Daily Care: Feel the soil with your fingers; if it feels dry, it’s time to water. If the soil gets too dry, the flowers buds will drop, and the plant will wilt. The cactus appreciates bright but indirect light. It has a low toxic level. If large quantities of this plant are ingested, stomach upset may occur.
Post Bloom Care: Prune the cactus about a month after blooming. In the fall, place in a cool area with indirect sunlight during the day, and a dark area during the night. Provide minimal water.