Why Do Christmas Cactus Flowers Change Color?

Christmas cacti flower in a dark shade of pink.

Christmas cactus blossoms can change colors in challenging growing conditions. Christmas cacti are often given as gifts during the winter holidays, but indoor gardeners frequently disagree about the best way to care for them.

Lighting

The blossoms of the Christmas cactus can fade to a lighter shade when it has too much light. The cactus needs bright light, but it prefers short days. To prevent the cactus flower blossoms from fading, do not expose the cactus to artificial light at night.

Temperature

Christmas cactus blossoms might fade if the gets too warm. The plant grows best in temperatures below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures between 60 and 65 degrees are ideal for best growth and to keep the blossoms from fading or dropping.

Moisture

Cactus flowers bloom best when they are not over watered. Over-watering could cause the flowers to drop. It is best to let the soil dry in between watering to insure a long-lasting, vibrantly colored blossom.

References

• Mother Earth News: Now Showing: The Coolest Cactus
• University of Ilinois: Homeowner's Column: Christmas Cactus
• University of Nebraska: Caring for Your Christmas Cactus

Resources

• North Dakota State University: Hortchat: Christmas Cactus
• Orlando Sentinel: Christmas Cactus