What is the difference between蟹爪莲 (Schlumbergera) and 蟹爪兰 (Disocactus)
蟹爪莲 and 蟹爪兰 often cause confusion among flower enthusiasts, as these epiphytic cacti, with their pendant branches and bright flowers, are popular choices for indoor potted plants. This article will help readers fully grasp the key points of cultivation through a comparison of botanical characteristics and a systematic care guide.
Etymology of 蟹爪莲 and 蟹爪兰
Botanical name verification
According to the "Flora of China," the formal Chinese name for plants in the Schlumbergera genus is 蟹爪兰, while 蟹爪莲 is a common folk name. Both refer to the same species, with the difference lying only in regional naming conventions. The flat stem segments resembling crab claws are the common source of the names.
Systematic Care Guide for Schlumbergera
Three key environmental factors
Temperature and light coordination: 20-25°C is the ideal growth temperature, with winter temperatures above 10°C to prevent frostbite. Place the plants near east-west facing windowsills to ensure 4-6 hours of scattered light daily, and use a 50% shade net in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Water and fertilizer management strategy
Irrigation technique: Use the "soak pot method" to water, after the surface of the substrate is dry for 2cm, avoiding waterlogging in the leaf core. Combine with early morning and evening foliar sprays to maintain 60% air humidity, and reduce watering frequency during the flowering period to prevent bud drop.
Nutrition supply plan: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer (N-P-K=10-10-10) every half month during the growing period from March to September, and switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer (N-P-K=5-20-5) during the bud formation stage to promote flowering, noting the principle of applying thin and frequent fertilization.
Key points for flowering management
Flowering can be adjusted through light control: 14 hours of darkness daily for 6 weeks can induce bud differentiation. Maintain a day-night temperature difference of less than 8°C during the peak flowering period, and promptly remove spent flowers to extend the overall ornamental period by 15-20 days.
Solutions to common planting problems
For common root rot issues, it is recommended to use a mixed substrate of peat: perlite: bark=4:3:3 when repotting every spring, combined with ceramic stones at the bottom to enhance drainage. If red spider mites infest, spray the back of the leaves with a neem oil diluent weekly for control.
Mastering these core techniques can keep Schlumbergera flowering for 3-4 months, making it truly the "king of annual flowers." It is recommended to establish a care log based on the plant's condition to gradually form a personalized cultivation system.