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PLANT OF THE MONTH: APRIL
Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri
“EASTER CACTUS”
By Dr. Rahpee Thongthiraj

April can symbolize many events such as the coming of spring and Easter. Celebrate this month with the blooming “Easter Cactus.” Originating from Brazil, the "Easter Cactus" is a succulent epiphytic cactus, which evolves in the tropics or jungles where the climate is warm and humid. This succulent survives by adapting to growing in trees. One of the great pleasures that this succulent offers is that it grows as a cascading plant, with stems that can reach up to one foot long.

Some varieties of these cacti can have more than 50 flowers and last for many weeks. The flowers range from pink to red. As early as February the plant begins to develop its flower buds. To ensure your cactus will bloom, place it in a cool and dry environment until you can see the buds. The ideal temperature to induce flowering is between 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit.


		The “Easter Cactus” is relatively simple to care for. When the buds develop, relocate the cactus to a warmer place with filtered sunlight. Make sure the cactus has a well-drained potting mix. If outdoors, water only once a week and if indoors, water about once a month. To keep the beautiful colors of the blooms alive throughout the spring, never overwater the cactus. While the cactus is in bloom, maintain the temperature at or above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, but do not expose the plant to extreme heat.


	Unlike the “Christmas Cactus,” which blooms from late November thru January, the “Easter Cactus” flowers for a short time, generally from April thru May. The "Easter Cactus" has foliar segments and no teeth-like edges on its leaves whereas the "Christmas Cactus" possesses scalloped or rounded edge leaves. Take advantage of the warmer climates by adding red, lavender, and pink varieties of this succulent in your landscape or add a container garden filled with these vibrant plants to a patio. Because the "Easter Cactus" is a low-maintenance plant, you will have time to enjoy the natural beauty that these succulents offer!
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