Cutflower Nomenclature

Scientific/Botanical Name:

Genus: Rhipsalidopsis

Specie: Rhipsalidopsis are made up of two species: Rhipsalidopsis rosea and Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri.

Variety/Cultivar:

English Name:

Synonym: Hatiora gaertneri

Common Name:

Spring or Easter Cactus, Whitsun Cactus

Botanical Family:

Name in Latin: Cactaceae

Name in English: The Cactus Family

The Plant

Origin: Brazil

Growth Habit: epiphytic cacti,

Flower: flowers of the Rhipsalidopsis are star-shaped, open very flat, and occur in very saturated colors

Blooming Period: spring thru summer

Leaf: made up of segments, most of which are flattened and which are the photosynthetic organs (cladodes) of the plant.

Usage:

Easter Cactus can be grown indoors as houseplants. Excellent as a hanging basket indoors in bright, airy spot or on a sheltered patio in temperate areas. Makes a great Easter centerpiece

Care and Handling

Soil: rich well draining soil

Amount of water: moist but also allowed to dry between waterings

Nutrition: well balanced but higher Nitrogen based fertilizer. Fertilize every 3 to 4 weeks during the growing season.

Special handling: bright but indirect light

Special feature/remarks:

Segmented stem growth characteristics and rooting process are similar to Christmas Cactus-(Schlumbergera). Often confused with Christmas Cacti or Schlumbergera, they are, in fact, similar in appearance but have very different flowers.