Hatiora is a genus of ornamental cacti among the most popular cultivated cacti. Some of them have arched stems and are sold for hanging baskets. They are epiphytic plants and grow mostly on tree trunks in wet and humid regions.
The stems of Hatiora may be leaf-shaped or flat. Depending on the species, it can grow to maximum lengths ranging between 20 inches and 6 feet (0.5 and 1.8 m). The stems are smooth rather than toothed or scalloped and green all year round. The small funnel-shaped flowers resemble tiny daisies and grow at the end of stem segments. They range in color from yellow and orange to pink and red.
Hatioras grow 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 they grow mostly on tree trunks, they are sometimes found on rocky ground. Hatioras bloom in spring in the wild and will sometimes bloom twice in one year.
Growing Conditions
Light: These tropical cacti like bright partial light only. They should never be exposed to full sunlight or midday sunlight.
Water: Soil should constantly be kept moist but never soggy. Do not allow water to sit in the dish underneath.
Temperature: Hatioras prefers spring, summer, and fall temperatures between 75 and 80 °F (24 and 27 °C). Winter temperatures should be between 45 and 65 °F (7 and 18 °C).
Soil: These cacti require rough soil to grow well due to their natural growing environment on rocks or trees. Therefore, a 1:1 mixture of potting soil to pumice, tree bark, or perlite is required. Pumice is preferred.
Fertilizer: Hatioras prefers fertilization every 14 days during the growing season. Use a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize during the resting period.
Grower's Tips
Hatioras thrives best in indirect light with exposure to morning and evening sun. They prefer well-drained soil. Cactus or epiphytic compost works well. These cacti can be propagated easily through cuttings that can root immediately in soil. Hatioras like long nights of about 14 hours. Cover the plants with a paper bag to shut out sunlight. Try not to reposition the plant once flower buds appear, as they could fall off during any movement. Hatioras need a month's rest after flowering, so water sparingly during this period.
Links
- Back to genus Hatiora
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus