About Hatiora Salicornioide

Hatiora Salicornioide, also known as Rhipsalis Salicornioides or dancing bone cactus, belongs to the Rhipsalidaceae family. Its common name comes from its green segmented stems that resemble human bones. The succulent has cylindrical green stem segments with small spines. Erect, slender, and pendent stems can grow up to two feet long. The leaves are tiny, emerald green, and almost negligible. During the blooming season in the spring to early summer, it bears pretty yellow flowers.

How to Care for Hatiora Salicornioide 

Sunlight: This tropical cactus prefers bright but indirect light. Place it near an east or west-facing window where it receives 4-6 hours of sunlight filtered through a sheer curtain. Avoid hot afternoon sunlight, which can scorch the tender green segments.

Temperature: Hatiora Salicornioide isn't afraid of high heat and temperature as long as the gardener provides a sunshade. It is essential to give it enough water in summer because this plant is active in summer. Hatiora Salicornioide is not a hardy succulent, so moving it indoors before frost can help it survive in winter.

Water: Allow the potted soil to dry out between waterings before thoroughly soaking again. Be sure the pot has drainage holes and reduce frequency during winter when growth slows. Take care to prevent overwatering, leading to stem rot and fungal issues. During the summer season, water tends to evaporate at a faster rate. Therefore, it is recommended to water this plant more frequently than in other seasons. Additionally, spraying water near the plant can help increase the surrounding environment's humidity level. This, in turn, helps this succulent plant maintain its emerald-green color and plump leaves.

Soil & Planter: Hatiora Salicornioide plant has short roots, like many cacti. Therefore, it's important to plant it in a relatively shallow pot with bottom drainage holes. For healthy growth, this succulent prefers a fast-draining cactus and succulent mix, which can be created by blending extra perlite or pumice to create an airy growing medium. A recommended ratio of 3:7 or 4:6 of organic soil to gritty rocks is ideal, depending on the size of the plant.

Propagation: Take healthy stems at least 3 inches long in spring and allow the cut ends to dry for two days before planting in the suitable soil mix. Keep the soil slightly moist initially for better root formation in the first month after planting. When the fresh roots come out, increase the watering frequency until solid roots are established.

Fertilizer: To ensure that the plant receives fresh organic soil nutrition, it's recommended to replant the succulent every 2-3 years, preferably in spring or summer. Or feed the plant twice or three times every year with a professionally formulated cactus fertilizer.

More Information

Primary color: Green
Secondary color: Green
Bloom color: Yellow
Cold hardiness zone: Zone 11a
Product format: 4" pot
Suitability: Indoor hanging planters; patio decorating
Propagation: Stem cuttings
Special characteristic: Resembles bones