Rhipsalis - Hatiora aka Dancing Bones
Hatiora salicornioides, formerly known as Rhipsalis salicornioides, is a bushy cactus with slender, many-branched, erect, somewhat arching, or pendent stems. The stems grow to 2 feet (60 cm) long and consist of smaller, up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long segments. The segments have a shape that resembles a club or bottle.
The flowers are orange-yellow, bell-shaped, up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) long, and appear at the ends of younger stem segments from late winter to early spring.
Key Points:
Hatiora salicornioides:
- This is the specific plant often referred to. Common names include "Dancing Bones Cactus," "Drunkard's Dream," "Bottle Cactus," and "Spice Cactus."
- It's an epiphytic cactus, meaning it naturally grows on other plants, particularly trees, in its native habitat.
- It's native to the coastal regions of eastern Brazil.
- It's known for its unique, segmented stems that resemble small bottles or bones.
- It produces small, yellow to orange flowers at the tips of its stems.
- It then produces translucent white berries.
Cultivation:
- Light:
- Unlike desert cacti, Hatiora salicornioides prefers bright, indirect light. Direct, harsh sunlight can scorch it.
- It thrives in shaded areas, mimicking its natural habitat under the forest canopy.
- Watering:
- Water when the top layer of soil feels dry.
- Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
- It prefers some humidity.
- Temperature:
- It's not frost-tolerant.
- A minimum average temperature of around 12°C (54°F) is recommended.
- Soil:
- Use a well-draining soil mix, such as a mix designed for epiphytic plants or orchids.
- Propagation:
- It's easily propagated by stem cuttings.
- Uses:
- It's popular as an ornamental houseplant, especially in hanging baskets, due to its cascading growth habit.
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.