Along with the poinsettia, the Christmas cactus is another plant that flowers for the holidays. Although the Christmas cactus does not look like your typical cactus, it indeed belongs to the Cactus family. It is an epiphyte (like the orchid, bromeliad and tillandsia) and in its natural habitat it typically grows on tree branches and rocks. It is native to the mountain rainforests of Brazil which explains why it needs special care in order for it to thrive. And under the right conditions, your Christmas cactus will live for decades.
Plant your Christmas cactus in soil that provides superior drainage and only water when the surface soil feels dry. The Christmas cactus does not like a drafty location and prefers cool temperatures (ideal temp is 68 degrees F). Being a tropical cacti, it thrives in the shade and high humidity. It works well as a house plant and misting will keep it happy. Flowering is triggered by shorter days and cooler temperatures. To force buds to form, put the plant in complete darkness for 14 hours each night. Once the buds form, move to a brighter location for the flowers to bloom. Be aware that too much light will burn the plant.
Most of the Christmas cactus you see today are cultivars of the genus Schlumberger and the flowers comes in red, pink, orange, purple, white or yellow. According to the College of Tropical Agriculture & Human Resources, UH Manoa, the Christmas cactus does well in Hilo.