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Telling a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus is easier than you think once you know what to look for.
If you’ve ever wondered how to tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus, the secret is in the leaves, the flowers, and the timing of the blooms.
These two holiday cacti look similar at first glance, but they have distinct differences that make them easy to identify.
In this post, we’ll break down how to tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus so you can name your plant with confidence.
Let’s dive into the details that set these beloved houseplants apart.
How to Tell a Christmas Cactus from a Thanksgiving Cactus by Leaf Shape
The fastest way to tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus is by examining the stem segments, which are often called leaves.
These segments are actually modified stems, and their edges hold the biggest clue.
When you look at the edges of the segments, you’ll see either smooth, rounded scallops or sharp, jagged points.
This simple observation is the most reliable method for identification.
1. Thanksgiving Cactus Has Pointy, Crab-Like Claws
If you’re trying to tell a Thanksgiving cactus from a Christmas cactus, check for pointy projections on the leaf edges.
The Thanksgiving cactus has distinct, pointed teeth that look like tiny claws or crab legs.
These sharp points stick out from each side of the stem segment, giving it a spiky appearance.
Botanically, it’s called Schlumbergera truncata, and those claw-like features are its trademark.
If your plant has these jagged edges, you’re almost certainly looking at a Thanksgiving cactus.
2. Christmas Cactus Has Smooth, Rounded Scallops
In contrast, the true Christmas cactus, Schlumbergera bridgesii, has smooth, rounded edges on its stem segments.
Instead of pointy claws, you’ll see soft, scalloped curves that resemble teardrops or small leaves.
There are no sharp protrusions at all on a genuine Christmas cactus.
So when you’re learning how to tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus, just run your finger along the edge.
If it feels smooth and rounded, it’s a Christmas cactus.
If it feels prickly and sharp, it’s a Thanksgiving cactus.
How to Tell a Christmas Cactus from a Thanksgiving Cactus by Flower Shape
Another great way to tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus is by looking at the blooms when they appear.
Both plants produce stunning flowers, but the shapes are noticeably different.
The flowers hang down from the stem tips, and their structure reveals the plant’s true identity.
1. Thanksgiving Cactus Flowers Are Asymmetric
Thanksgiving cactus flowers have a slanted, asymmetric shape.
The petals are often angled to one side, opening wider at an angle rather than evenly around the center.
This gives them a slightly windblown or lopsided look when you view them from the front.
When you’re trying to tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus, this tilted flower form is a strong indicator of the Thanksgiving variety.
2. Christmas Cactus Flowers Are Symmetric and Radiating
On the other hand, Christmas cactus flowers are perfectly symmetric.
They hang down and open evenly from the center, creating a star-like or tubular shape that radiates outward.
There’s no slant or tilt to the petals, just a balanced, symmetrical bloom.
If your plant flowers with this uniform pattern, it’s a true Christmas cactus.
So to tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus, wait for the flowers and compare their symmetry.
How to Tell a Christmas Cactus from a Thanksgiving Cactus by Bloom Time
The name itself gives away another clue, and it’s all about when the plant decides to flower.
Bloom time is a helpful factor when you’re learning how to tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus.
1. Thanksgiving Cactus Blooms Earlier
The Thanksgiving cactus is the early bloomer of the pair.
It typically starts flowering in late October or early November, just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States.
If your plant is already full of buds and blooms by mid-November, that’s a massive hint.
Most people don’t realize that the common “Christmas cactus” they buy in stores is actually a Thanksgiving cactus, because it blooms so early.
2. Christmas Cactus Blooms Later
The true Christmas cactus waits until mid-December to show off its flowers.
It usually reaches peak bloom near Christmas Day, which is how it earned its festive name.
If your plant doesn’t start flowering until late December, you’re likely caring for a genuine Christmas cactus.
So when you tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus, simply note the calendar date of the first flower.
Other Quick Tips to Tell a Christmas Cactus from a Thanksgiving Cactus
Beyond the main differences, a few other clues can help you tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus.
These small details make identification even easier.
1. Pollen Color on the Anthers
Look at the yellow anthers, the little tips inside the flower, and check the pollen color.
Thanksgiving cactus typically has purple or pink pollen.
Christmas cactus, on the other hand, usually has yellow pollen.
It’s a subtle trick, but it works well to tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus.
2. Overall Plant Shape and Growth Habit
Thanksgiving cacti tend to grow more upright and have a more sprawling, less neat shape.
Christmas cacti often have a more cascading, drooping growth habit with softer segments.
If your plant leans and trails over the pot edge, it might be a Christmas cactus.
If it stands up stiff and pointed, lean toward Thanksgiving cactus.
So, How To Tell A Christmas Cactus From A Thanksgiving Cactus?
You can tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus by checking the leaf edges, the flower symmetry, and the bloom time.
If the stem segments have sharp, pointy claws, it’s a Thanksgiving cactus.
If they have smooth, rounded scallops, it’s a Christmas cactus.
And if it flowers before Thanksgiving or after mid-December, you’ll have your answer.
Now that you know how to tell a Christmas cactus from a Thanksgiving cactus, you can impress your friends with your plant knowledge.
Take a close look at your plant today and see which holiday star you’re actually growing.