Scientific Name
Hatiora salicornioides (Haw.) Britton & Rose
Common Name(s)
Dancing Bones, Dancing Bones Cactus, Drunkard's Dream, Spice Cactus, Bottle Cactus
Synonym(s)
Rhipsalis salicornioides
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Rhipsalideae
Genus: Hatiora
Etymology
The specific epithet "salicornioides" (pronounced "sal-eye-korn-ee-OY-deez") means "resembling Salicornia" and refers to the jointed, succulent stems of this species that resemble those of Salicornia.
Origin
Hatiora salicornioides is endemic to Brazil.
Description
Hatiora salicornioides, formerly known as Rhipsalis salicornioides, is a bushy cactus with slender, many-branched, erect, somewhat arching, or pendent stems. The stems can grow to 2 feet (60 cm) long and consist of smaller segments measuring up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) in length. The segments have a shape that resembles a club or bottle with the narrower end at the base.
The flowers are orange-yellow, bell-shaped, and appear at the ends of younger stem segments from late winter to early spring. They can reach a length of up to 0.8 inches (2 cm).
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 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 rainforests of South-Eastern Brazil, as far south as the state of Paraná, along the border with Paraguay. Although they grow mostly on tree trunks, they are sometimes found growing on rocky ground. Hatiora blooms in spring in the wild and will sometimes flower twice in one year.
These cacti thrive best in indirect light with morning and evening sun exposure. They prefer well-drained soil. Cactus or epiphytic compost works well. Hatiora can be propagated easily through cuttings that can root immediately in soil. It 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.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Hatiora.
Links
- Back to genus Hatiora
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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