Abstract
Rhipsalidopsis (Easter cactus) and Schlumbergera (Thanksgiving and Christmas cactus) are two genera of epiphytic cacti endemic to southeastern Brazil. Rhipsalidopsis is comprised of two species (R. gaertneri and R. rosea) and Schlumbergera contains five species (S. opuntioides, S. obtusangula, S. orssichiana, S. russelliana, and S. truncata). There is considerable potential for the improvement of commercial cultivars in both genera. Flower color and form, plant habit, postharvest performance, and the responsiveness to floral induction treatments are selection criteria used in breeding of Rhipsalidopsis. The selection criteria used in breeding of Schlumbergera are flower color and form, growth rate, phylloclade size and shape, plant habit, and the critical daylength for flowering. Inbreeding depression, self-incompatibility, and a long generation time (1.5 to 3 years) are impediments to breeding in both genera. Interspecific hybridization has been performed in Rhipsalidopsis and Schlumbergera, and significant phenotypic variation has been observed within interspecific hybrid populations.
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