Friday, December 5, 2008

Christmas Cactus

Helpful Hints from Hoogasian Flowers

Christmas Cactus, Thanksgiving Cactus, or Zygocactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi and S. truncates pronunciation: shlum-BER-ger-uh) is a cactus used as an ornamental gift for the holidays as the blooms (most commonly) are bright red (but also white and pink) and flowering occurs during the winter holiday periods in many areas.

It is a member of the Cactaceae (cactus family) with close relatives including prickley pear (Opuntia) and night-blooming cereus. At least 3-5 weeks of good flowering, depending on interior environment. However, each flower may last only 5-8 days. Can withstand major abuse in the home or workplace but generally stays alive and flowers yearly. Will generally do well in light levels at least bright enough to read a newspaper in comfort but more light would be better.

To order Christmas Cactus or other gifts: http://www.hoogasian.com/

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