Unknown plant growing in Christmas cactus plant - Ask Extension
I've had this Christmas cactus plant for several years. About a month ago, shoots started popping up--whatever this is has taken over the cactus--it ...
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Unknown plant growing in Christmas cactus plant #889744
Asked November 12, 2024, 5:17 PM EST
I've had this Christmas cactus plant for several years. About a month ago, shoots started popping up--whatever this is has taken over the cactus--it is dead. Wondering what it is & how is grew, since I never added potting soil, etc. Thanks for the help! Jane
Crawford County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Jane, Thank you for your inquiry. I have to admit, this issue has me puzzled!
There’s very little Christmas Cactus left in your pot. Did you pull it all out as it began to die? Was the pot outdoors over the summer where some sort of seeds could have landed in the pot?
It looks like some gremlin scattered seed in your pot, but these spindly seedlings do not look strong enough to choke out a Christmas cactus! I guess what I would do is wait and see what those seedlings develop into…perhaps knowing that will explain matters.
Christmas cactus rarely develops seeds, but it is possible. However, the sprouts from their seeds would look more like thick succulent leaves rather than what you have growing in your pot.
I’m going to send your inquiry back to those who are more knowledgeable than I. Perhaps someone will have an answer for you. In the meantime, wait and see what develops!
There’s very little Christmas Cactus left in your pot. Did you pull it all out as it began to die? Was the pot outdoors over the summer where some sort of seeds could have landed in the pot?
It looks like some gremlin scattered seed in your pot, but these spindly seedlings do not look strong enough to choke out a Christmas cactus! I guess what I would do is wait and see what those seedlings develop into…perhaps knowing that will explain matters.
Christmas cactus rarely develops seeds, but it is possible. However, the sprouts from their seeds would look more like thick succulent leaves rather than what you have growing in your pot.
I’m going to send your inquiry back to those who are more knowledgeable than I. Perhaps someone will have an answer for you. In the meantime, wait and see what develops!
Cactus was never outside. I like your comment about a gremlin scattering seed in the pot! Don't think what is left of cactus will survive-whatever this is has taken over the pot!
Thanks for your answer!
Jane
Hello,
It sounds like you've had quite the surprise with your Christmas cactus!
Given that you didn't add any new soil and the pot was kept indoors. The only possible way that seeds or spores found their way into your pot was through the air from an open door or open window.
