If you live in North Florida, you will notice that the plants called "Christmas Cactus" truly do bloom around Christmastime here, if left to their own devices. It is sign of the season in Palm Coast, Ormond Beach, or St. Augustine to see the plant Schlumbergera begin to bud and flower in its unique and beautiful way in December.
Christmas Cactus is native to the coastal mountains of Brazil and grows there on trees and rocks as an epiphyte, or air plant. This flowering succulent plant enjoys humidity and shade, making it a perfect plant for our North Florida homes and patios, and slightly different than its desert relatives who enjoy sun and dry conditions.
In its native Brazil, Christmas Cactus blooms in May. All around the world, as a houseplant it has been very popular and it can live for a long time, being passed down through generations. For many areas of the United States, careful steps are taken to make the plant bloom during the holiday season. That is not the case here, as it does not demand much care and is perfectly suited to our climate.
Florida landscape design is very customized and our clients have found that the assistance of a professional landscaping company leads to success in planning, installation, and ongoing maintenance of a well landscaped home or commercial property.
If you enjoyed this post, please feel free to read about other Florida winter plants of interest:
Amaryllis:
http://floridalandscapedesign.blogspot.com/2013/01/the-truth-about-amaryllis-flowers.html
Florida Holly:
http://floridalandscapedesign.blogspot.com/2011/12/florida-holly-is-not-so-festive-after.html
