Easter Cactus ... a poorly timed Christmas Cactus?

The Easter cactus, a symbol of rebirth, is often identified as a Christmas cactus with poor timing. It isn’t confused because of the time change or leap year… it is a tropical cactus that blooms during the Easter holiday. As a jungle cactus, it can stand more humidity and water than a desert cactus.

Besides blooming time, there is also a slight difference in the leaves. An Easter cactus has leaves that are wide and round and trimmed with a red tint. The Christmas cactus' leaves are pointed. Both plants’ leaves are joined together to form a long stem that produces flowers.

The Easter star-shaped cactus flowers can be red, pink yellow, white, or purple and have sharp or rounded edges.

Most Easter cactus are considered to be a house plant. It can only survive outdoors with a  hardiness zone of 10 and 11, including are of southern California, Hawaii and Mexico.

The care of the Easter cactus is much like that of the Christmas cactus. Both species require cool temperatures and reduced watering until the flower buds form. During bloom time, the cactus should be watered regularly so that the soil does not dry out. Do not fertilize the plants when they are blooming because this will interfere with flowering.

After Easter, the cactus should be given about a 30-day rest. Place it in a cool room and provide limited water. It's normal for a few leaves to be drop off during this time.

Want to share you plant with others? Propagate new plants by taking cuttings of cactus branches. Let the cuttings dry out overnight before planting them in cactus soil and you'll have a new Easter cactus plant.