Hatiora

There is only one commonly grown cactus of this group of Brazilian epiphytes; H. salicornioides is commonly called Drunkard's Dream and Spice Cactus. This small, epiphytic shrub forms a tall, profusely branching stem up to 16 inches high from which numerous shoots grow. The pendent, leafless shoots, which can grow over 6 inches long, are made up of bottle-shaped joints. If the plant is given bright light, the more slender portion of the joint will be shorter and the shoots will take on a reddish hue. In the spring and summer, numerous small flowers ranging in color from yellow to red are borne at the ends of the shoots. These are followed by translucent white fruits with reddish tips.

Pot Cultivation

This plant needs a minimum temperature ranging from 48� and 54� F. Grow this epiphyte in humus-rich soil in a humid atmosphere with filtered sun. It won't tolerate intense heat or frost.

Propagation

The Spice Cactus may be increased by seeds or cuttings, although taking cuttings is much easier. Cuttings can be taken of the shoots in the spring. Choose a healthy shoot and cut (with a sterile, sharp knife) the stem just above a bud or shoot. Don't leave a stub. Trim the stem so that the cutting is 2 to 4 inches long. Leave the cutting in a warm, dry place for a couple of days to allow a callus to form over the wound. Once the callus forms, the cutting may be inserted in a container filled with firmed cactus potting mix. The cuttings should root in 2 to 6 weeks. Seeds may be sown in containers filled with a general-purpose cactus and succulent potting mix. Sprinkle the seeds evenly over the surface of the compost. Cover the seeds lightly with some grit, moisten the container and place in an area with high humidity and warmth. Transplant the seedling when they are large enough to handle. Waiting too long until they are overcrowded can cause rot as well as be more difficult to transplant. Gently separate them so as not to damage the delicate roots. Transplanting will be easier if the soil is slightly moist. Seedlings can be potted singly or with several to a pot. They seem to do better together than by themselves.