Scientific Name
Hatiora × graeseri (Werderm.) Barthlott ex D.R.Hunt
Common Name(s)
Easter Cactus, Whitsun Cactus, Holiday Cactus
Synonym(s)
Rhipsalidopsis × graeseri, Rhipsalis × graeseri, Rhipsaphyllopsis graeseri, Schlumbergera × graeseri
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Rhipsalideae
Genus: Hatiora
Origin
Hatiora × graeseri is a hybrid resulting from a cross between Hatiora gaertneri and Hatiora rosea.
Description
Hatiora × graeseri is a freely branching shrub with pendent stems that consists of flat, mid-green segments. Hatiora gaertneri has been artificially crossed with Hatiora rosea to create a hybrid that produces flowers in various colors, including red, pink, and white.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10b to 11b: from 35 °F (+1.7 °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 Parana, along the border with Paraguay. Although they grow primarily on tree trunks, they sometimes can be found on rocky ground. In the wild, Hatiora bloom in spring and will sometimes flower twice in one year.
These cacti thrive best in indirect light with morning and evening sun exposure. They prefer well-draining 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. Do not reposition the plant once flower buds appear, as these could fall off during 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
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
