Easter Cactus
10 Facts about the Easter Cactus
Although daffodils might be considered the essential Easter flower, the Easter cactus is an equally attractive flower that has long lasting blooms in a range of colors. Depending on the season, the plant requires more or less care. Although it typically blooms around Easter time, it can also thrive throughout the rest of the year when kept indoors.
In fact, the cactus is a very versatile plant that can be kept indoors during the cooler months, and when there is a chance of frost, and then set outside in the warmer months, too. Below are 10 more facts that you might not have known about this cactus.
1. Some varieties of the Easter cactus can have as many as 60 flowers, making it very floriferous. Taking care of the plant when it comes to providing the right temperatures and keeping it watered properly can help ensure that the blooms thrive and develop during the time of year, starting in February, when it ripens.
2. All of the holiday cacti, including the Easter cactus, bloom when the days are short. However, although the Easter cactus might look similar to the Christmas cactus, it actually has pointed margins instead of rounded.
3. The Rose variety has deep pink filaments and rose-colored petals. It is a very colorful plant, making it extremely popular during the springtime when bright colors are desired after the harshness of winter. The Rose variety was discovered in 1911 in Brazil.
4. Originally, it was grown in the trees of the jungle. Sometimes, it is also referred to as a “jungle cacti.” When it resided in the jungle, it generally hung down from trees.
5. From October until February the plant needs to be in temperatures around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. However, once the danger of a frost is over, it can be taken outside during the summer months. Placing it where it can receive shade is desirable. Some people prefer to hang it from trees where it can still receive sunlight, but be shaded as well. Setting it on the ground in a pot can cause problems as far as slugs are concerned.
6. Flower buds start to develop around February. Keeping it cool and dry will help the buds develop. If possible, lower the temperatures in the evening when keeping it indoors. This fluctuation of temperature can actually help the blossoms. It is also advised the while watering is a good idea, letting the soil dry out a little bit in between watering is also desirable, too.
7. The plant should not be fertilized when it is flowering. Precautions should also be taken to ensure that it is not overwatered. A peat-based soil which drains quickly is preferable since this can help avoid overwatering.
8. Bright light that is indirect is best for the plant. Too much sun might hurt the plant, and even burn it in some cases, while too little sun can damage it as well. The cactus can survive for limited amounts of time in low lighting conditions, but will eventually need some sun.
9. The plant can be grown from cuttings. Taking some of the segments and letting them dry for 24 hours is a good idea if you want to replant them.
10. Because it can be so easy to take care of, many beginning gardeners prefer growing the Easter cactus over any other plant. It can be kept solely as a houseplant, requiring very little upkeep, or be taken outside in the summer months, too. The ease of keeping the blooms coming and thriving is appealing to those who do not consider themselves blessed with green thumbs.