The Easter Cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri or Hatiora gaertneri) is a popular houseplant cultivated for its vibrant, star-shaped spring flowers. This epiphytic cactus is native to the rainforests of Brazil. Its common name reflects its tendency to produce flowers around the spring holiday of Easter, typically between March and May.
Identifying the Easter Cactus
Before purchasing, distinguish the Easter Cactus from the more common Christmas or Thanksgiving cacti (Schlumbergera species). The most apparent difference lies in the shape of the flattened stem segments. Easter Cacti have segments that are more rounded or scalloped along the edges, lacking the sharp, pointed projections found on the Thanksgiving Cactus.
The bloom time also provides a temporal identifier. The Easter Cactus naturally flowers in the spring, while Schlumbergera species bloom in the late fall or winter. The flowers themselves differ, producing more open, daisy-like or star-shaped blooms.
Finding Easter Cacti at Local Stores
The local availability of Easter Cacti is highly seasonal, peaking in the weeks leading up to Easter, usually in March and April. Large chain retailers, including home improvement centers and grocery stores, often stock these plants in high volume. These venues offer convenience and generally lower prices for common pink or red varieties. However, the quality and care received at large-volume stores can sometimes be inconsistent.
Local, independent nurseries and specialized garden centers are another option. They often provide better-cared-for plants and more knowledgeable staff. While prices might be slightly higher, these smaller shops may also carry unique cultivars or less common flower colors.
Specialty Online Vendors and Seasonal Availability
For those seeking specific colors, such as orange or white, or looking to purchase outside the typical March-to-May retail window, specialty online succulent and cacti vendors are the best resource. These dedicated growers often offer a wider selection of colors and sizes, including smaller starter plants or established heirloom varieties. They can ship plants year-round, expanding purchasing options beyond local seasonal stock.
Purchasing online requires careful consideration of shipping logistics, especially in colder months. Many specialty vendors ship plants either bare-root or in their original plastic pots. If temperatures are below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, it may be necessary to purchase a heat pack or delay shipping to mitigate the risk of cold damage. Reviewing the vendor’s shipping practices is important before placing an order.
Checking for Plant Health Before Purchase
Whether buying in person or receiving a shipment, check the plant’s health. The stem segments should feel firm and plump, indicating the plant is properly hydrated. Avoid any plants with soft, mushy, or shriveled segments. These are signs of either severe overwatering and root rot or chronic underwatering.
Examine the plant closely for signs of common pests, particularly mealybugs, which appear as small, white, cotton-like masses in the crevices between segments. Also, check the soil surface and the pot’s drainage holes. The soil should be lightly moist but not waterlogged. Visible white root tips through the drainage holes indicate active and healthy growth.