Dancing Bones Plant: Care, Propagation, and Problems

The Dancing Bones Plant, known to botanists as Hatiora salicornioides, is a unique epiphytic cactus from Brazil. It also goes by more imaginative names like Drunkard’s Dream and Spice Cactus. Its appearance is distinctive, with slender, bottle-shaped stems that grow in segments, resembling a stack of tiny bones. These stems, which can eventually cascade, make the plant an interesting subject for a hanging basket or a pot on a shelf.

Dancing Bones Plant Care

Light

This plant flourishes in bright, indirect sunlight. Direct exposure to intense sun should be avoided, as it can cause the stems to scorch. If the plant does not receive enough light, it may become “leggy,” meaning the stems will stretch out and lose their compact, bushy shape.

Soil

As an epiphyte, this cactus requires a potting medium that provides excellent drainage. A standard cactus or succulent soil mix is a suitable base. To further improve drainage and aeration, amending the soil with perlite or orchid bark is highly recommended.

Water

Use the “soak and dry” method: water the plant thoroughly, allow excess water to drain, and then wait until the top one to two inches of soil have dried out before watering again. Overwatering is a frequent cause of root rot. During the fall and winter dormancy period, the plant requires less frequent watering.

Temperature and Humidity

This plant thrives in average household temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It prefers moderate humidity levels of around 40-50%, which is common in most homes. While it can tolerate slightly lower temperatures, it must be protected from frost.

Fertilizer

During its active growing season in the spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, approximately once every four weeks. It is important to water the plant before fertilizing to prevent root burn. Feeding should be stopped during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth slows.

Propagating Dancing Bones Plant

Propagation is best undertaken in the spring or summer and is most reliably achieved through stem cuttings. Use a clean knife to snip off a cutting with at least two or three segments. Set the cutting in a dry, shaded area for several days. This allows the cut end to form a callus, a protective layer that prevents rot when planted.

Once callused, plant the cutting in a small pot with a well-draining cactus mix. Insert the callused end just deep enough for it to stand upright. Keep the soil lightly moist and place the new cutting in bright, indirect light to encourage root development.

Common Problems

Shriveled or wrinkled stems indicate the plant is not receiving enough water. Unlike desert cacti, these plants should not be allowed to stay dry for extended periods. A thorough watering will cause the stems to plump back up within a day or two.

Mushy, yellowing stems near the base of the plant are a clear symptom of overwatering and root rot. If you suspect root rot, remove the plant from its pot to inspect the roots. Healthy roots are firm and white, while rotted roots will be dark and mushy. Trim any rotted portions before repotting in fresh, dry soil.

Pests are not frequent, but mealybugs and spider mites can appear. Mealybugs look like small, white, cottony spots in the joints between stem segments. Spider mites are smaller and may create fine webbing. Both can be treated by wiping affected areas with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.

Is the Dancing Bones Plant Toxic

The Hatiora salicornioides is considered non-toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. While ingestion of any plant material can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets, this particular cactus does not pose a significant threat. It is good practice to place plants out of reach of curious pets and small children.