Dancing Bones Cactus Care – Unique And Easy Houseplant

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Dancing Bones Cactus Care
Frank Vincentz, CC BY-SA 3.0 <http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/>, via Wikimedia Commons

The Dancing Bones cactus makes an interesting houseplant. Dancing Bones cactus care is easy and this spineless cactus has a sprawling growth habit and also makes pretty yellow flowers.

Dancing Bones Cactus Key Takeaways:

  • The Dancing Bones Cactus, Hatiora salicornioides, thrives in bright indirect light and moderate temperatures.
  • It requires less frequent watering compared to other houseplants.
  • Being an epiphytic cactus native to Brazilian rainforests, it appreciates some moisture and humidity, contrary to desert cacti.
  • A well-draining growing medium like a mix of coco coir and perlite is ideal for its growth.
  • This cactus is notable for its easy propagation through cuttings, and its non-toxic nature makes it a safe addition to your indoor garden.

What Is A Dancing Bones Cactus?

Dancing Bones CactusHatiora salicornioides, the bottle cactus, dancing-bones, drunkard’s-dream, or spice cactus, is a species of flowering plant in the cactus family.

A member of the tribe Rhipsalideae, it often grows as an epiphyte. It is native to eastern Brazil. It is sometimes grown both indoors and outdoors as an ornamental. Hatiora salicornioides – Wikipedia

Dancing Bones Cactus Care

Dancing Bones Cactus Care In A Pot
Freellek, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dancing Bones is an attractive houseplant that is also pretty easy to care for.

As a houseplant, this cactus prefers bright indirect light indoors, a moderate temperature, and of course because it is a cactus it doesn’t need a lot of water.

However, Dancing Bones is not a desert cactus. It is an epiphyte that grows in a rainforest on trees so it does appreciate some moisture and humidity.

Although it is a cactus there aren’t any thorns on this plant so you won’t get pricked handling it.

Starting upright as it gains height it starts to sprawl out. It can grow up to 3 feet tall as it sprawls.

So here is how to take care of Dancing Bones cactus:

Dancing Bones Cactus Lighting

Hatiora salicornioides, commonly known as Dancing Bones cactus, is a popular choice for indoor gardens.

These hardy plants are relatively easy to care for, and they make a striking addition to any room.

One of the most important aspects of caring for Hatiora salicornioides is providing the right kind of lighting.

These plants prefer bright, indirect light. They can tolerate some morning sun but too much direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.

If your cactus isn’t getting enough light, it will start to stretch out and become leggy.

Dancing Bones Cactus Watering

Native to Brazil, this cactus is relatively easy to care for and makes an interesting addition to any indoor or outdoor garden.

When it comes to watering, Hatiora salicornioides is similar to most other succulents in that it does not need a lot of water.

This does not mean letting it go dry for long periods is a good idea.

It is a cactus that grows in the jungle and not the desert and so it appreciates regular watering when dry.

But too much water can also be detrimental to the plant so finding the right balance is important.

Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering, and then water deeply until the water drains out of the bottom of the pot. 

Dancing Bones Cactus Soil

Most information claims Dancing Bones Cacti prefer well-draining, sandy soils. But these plants are epiphytes that grow on trees.

It is unlikely these plants have ever seen a grain of sand in their natural environment.

I think it is recommended because it is fast draining but there are other growing mediums that are also fast draining.

I don’t use peat because of environmental concerns but I do use coco coir which is a renewable and superior growth medium.

Coco coir holds water well but also allows good air infiltration. It drains fast and roots love growing in it.

I use it on all my indoor plants no matter what kind they are. You can add perlite to it to promote faster dry down time if you wish.

I think coco coir and perlite in a 60/40 ratio is a much better choice than succulent or cactus soils.

You don’t even need the perlite. Coco is lighter than other potting mixes and can be reused.

Dancing Bones Cactus Propagation

This cactus gets its name from its unique appearance because the stems are segmented and resemble the bones of a skeleton.

The Dancing Bones plant is also known for its ability to propagate easily.

Cuttings can be taken from the main stem and rooted in soil. The cactus will typically start to grow new roots within a few weeks.

Dancing Bones Cactus Pruning

Dancing Bones cactus can become unruly over time. The plant has a sprawling growth habit as it matures.

It can get 2-3 feet tall and around if you let it but you can prune it back to a more manageable size if you want to.

So it is totally fine for the Dancing Bones cactus to be pruned to keep it compact and prevent it from getting too leggy.

When pruning, it is important to use sharp, clean shears to avoid damaging the plant.

Cuttings from this pruning can be taken from the tips of the stems and rooted in growing media.

Is Dancing Bones Cactus Toxic?

Hatiora salicornioides, also known as Dancing Bones Cactus, is a beautiful and unique plant that is native to Brazil.

The cactus gets its name from its skeleton-like appearance, and it is often used as an ornamental plant.

However, some people may wonder if Hatiora salicornioides is toxic. The answer is that the plant is not toxic to humans or animals.

However, it is important to note that the plant does contain small amounts of saponins, which can cause irritation if they come into contact with the skin.

Therefore, it is best to wear gloves when handling the plant. Overall, Hatiora salicornioides is a safe and beautiful addition to any home or garden.

Dancing Bones Cactus FAQ

Navigating the care and maintenance of the Dancing Bones Cactus (Hatiora salicornioides) can be a delightful journey, thanks to its minimal care requirements.

However, understanding the nuances of its care regimen can further ensure that your cactus thrives in its indoor setting.

The following FAQs delve into the specifics of light requirements, watering schedule, soil preferences, propagation methods, and toxicity concerns surrounding the Dancing Bones Cactus.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a greenery enthusiast embarking on your indoor gardening quest, these answers aim to nurture your green thumb and clarify any uncertainties you might have about caring for this unique houseplant.

Q. What kind of light does a Dancing Bones Cactus need?

A. Dancing Bones Cactus prefers bright, indirect light.

It can tolerate some morning sun but avoid exposing it to harsh afternoon sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.

Q. How often should I water my Dancing Bones Cactus?

A. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, then water deeply until it drains out from the bottom.

It appreciates moisture but over-watering can be detrimental.

Q. What is the best soil mix for Dancing Bones Cactus?

A. A mix of 60% coco coir and 40% perlite is recommended.

This combo provides good drainage, retains the right amount of moisture, and allows air infiltration, mimicking its natural epiphytic growing conditions.

Q. How can I propagate my Dancing Bones Cactus?

A. Propagation is easily done through cuttings.

Take a cutting from the main stem, let it dry for a day to form a callous, then plant it in a well-draining soil mix.

It will typically start to grow new roots within a few weeks.

Q. Is the Dancing Bones Cactus toxic?

A. No, the Dancing Bones Cactus is not toxic to humans or animals. However, it does contain small amounts of saponins which might cause skin irritation, so it’s advisable to wear gloves when handling the plant.

Dancing Bones Cactus Care Final Thoughts

Overall, the Dancing Bones cactus is a low-maintenance plant that is perfect for those who want to add a touch of greenery to their home without having to put in a lot of effort.

With its easy care requirements and drought tolerance, this cactus is a great choice for beginner gardeners or those with busy schedules.

And, its unique growth habit and beautiful yellow flowers make it a standout amongst other houseplants.