Scientific Name
Hatiora epiphylloides (Porto & Werderm.) P.V.Heath
Synonyms
Rhipsalis epiphylloides, Hatiora epiphylloides subsp. epiphylloides, Pseudozygocactus epiphylloides
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Rhipsalideae
Genus: Hatiora
Description
Hatiora epiphylloides is a shrubby epiphytic cactus with pendent, shortly segmented branches with strongly notched margins. The segments are up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long and up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) wide. Areoles are very small and spineless. Flowers are yellow and occur exceptionally on the margins.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Hatiora grows in the wild in tropical rain forests of south Eastern Brazil, as far south as the state of Parana, along the border with Paraguay. Although it grows mostly on tree trunks, it is sometimes found growing on rocky ground. In the wild, Hatiora bloom in spring and will sometimes flower twice in one year.
Hatiora thrives best in indirect light with exposure to morning and evening sun. It prefers well-drained soil. Cactus or epiphytic compost works well. It can be propagated easily through cuttings that can root immediately in soil. Hatiora likes long nights of about 14 hours. Cover the plant with a paper bag to shut out sunlight. Try not to reposition the plant once flower buds appear, as these could fall off during any movement. It needs a month's rest after flowering, so water sparingly during this period.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Hatiora.
Origin
Native to Brasil (northwest of Rio de Janeiro).
Subspecies
Links
- Back to genus Hatiora
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
