["Christmas" cactus; 11/4/12]
Some things are naturally nonconformist. When virtually all other plantlife here in this northern climate, indoors or out, is settling into its dormant period, the Schlumbergera -- often called Christmas cactus -- starts flashing its showy blossoms like a card trick. I noticed the first buds of the year on my plant when watering it last week, then this morning I saw that some blooms had already opened. At this rate, the performance may not last until Christmas, but then there will be bright holiday decorations to compete with. No, this plant is taking advantage of the dullness of November to strut its stuff on a stripped-down stage.
Lovely, aren't they! My pale pink one was has been blooming a couple of weeks, and the red one like yours is just opening up some of its buds. I think these are the Thanksgiving/Easter cacti - they bloom fall and spring. Our Thanksgiving was too early for it though yours just might last until then.
Posted by: marja-leena | Sunday, November 04, 2012 at 09:32 PM
I LOVE Christmas Cactus. Really, I don't know why I don't own one. Maybe it will be this year's Christmas present to myself.
Posted by: Roberta | Monday, November 05, 2012 at 10:54 AM
Marja-Leena: It surprises me every year. And yes, mine always blooms sometime before Thanksgiving - I can't remember from year to year when - I should look through my photos and see if it also blooms for Easter.
Roberta: Yes, you should get one! I don't think they're pet poisonous or anything - never had any issues with my dogs.
Posted by: Leslee | Monday, November 05, 2012 at 07:54 PM