Propagation
Sow fresh seed during spring and maintain a temperature of 19ş to 27ş C. (66ş to 81ş F).

Take stem cuttings of non-flowering shoots during the growing period.


Botanic information
Leaf: The tiny modified leaves are spine-like and appear on the leaf-like stems that are up to 1m (3ft) long and 120mm (5in) wide. The margins of the branches are scalloped.

Flower: The flowers have a long curved tube with many silky sepals and petals form an expanding funnelform shape. In the centre are many stamens surrounding a single stigma. The flower appears solitary from the side of the stem at night from late sdpring to early summer and persists for 2-days.

Fruit: The small globular berries contain tiny seeds that are viable but the plant is commonly reproduced vegetatively.

Culture
Succulents are easy to care for pot plants and are excellent as children`s first houseplant. They can tolerate a great deal of neglect and mismanagement allowing beginners to tune their horticulture talents.

These plants prefer hot days and cool nights and during winter tolerate temperatures that fall to 4.5şC (40şF). Bright indirect light is essential and if grown in full sun some shade is required.
When watering allow the compost to dry a little before re-watering. Reduce watering during winter to once a month. The soil must be well drained and never allow it to become boggy as this will result in the plant rotting. Misting the leaves is not required and the plants prefer fresh air. Houseplants should be placed near an open window.

When re-potting select a shallow pot that is just larger than the current one and pot up during spring in a loam based gritty potting mix.

General plant symptoms
Stem elongation is normally the result of too much water or lack of light. Rotate the plant to even growth and place in a brighter position.

Brown spotson the leaves is an indication of under-watering, be certain that the soil is well drained and water regular, as succulents require ample moisture during summer.

Defoliation suddenly results from watering with cold water. The plants prefer tepid water or the plant loose leaves from under-watering.