Differences Between Christmas Cactus vs Thanksgiving Cactus vs Easter Cactus

Holiday cacti like the Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii or Schlumbergera x buckleyi), Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata), and Easter Cactus (Schlumbergera gaertneri) are all related, but they have some distinct characteristics.

The key differences are the way the leaf segments look, when they bloom, and the shape of the flowers.

Continue reading for the comparisons, but first some pictures of the three plants for easy identification.

Difference between Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter Cactus 

These common types of holiday cactus all look quite similar. But if you know what to look for, it’s simple to identify and distinguish which plant is which.  

Leaf Segments

• Christmas Cactus: Has flattened, scalloped stem segments with smooth and rounded edges.
• Thanksgiving Cactus: Features stem segments with distinctive, pointed teeth or claws along the edges.
• Easter Cactus: Has stem segments with more rounded and scalloped edges, similar to Christmas Cactus but usually more rounded, often with small bristles at the ends. 

Bloom Time

• Christmas Cactus: Typically blooms in late fall to early winter, around Christmas time.
• Thanksgiving Cactus: Grows flowers in late fall, usually around Thanksgiving.
• Easter Cactus: As the name suggests, it blooms in spring, often around Easter.

Flower Shape and Color

• Christmas Cactus: Flowers tend to point more upward. Comes in various colors including white, pink, red, and sometimes yellow.
• Thanksgiving Cactus: Flowers are often more horizontal or pointing slightly downward. Similar color range as the Christmas Cactus but may include more variations of orange.
• Easter Cactus: Flowers are also more horizontal but may have a more daisy-shaped appearance. Typically has more pastel-colored flowers, including shades of pink and purple.