Lepismium cruciforme (Hurricane Cactus)

Native from Brazil to northeastern Argentina, this cactus grows on trees or rocks in humid woodland. Its trailing, branching stems vary from flattened segments to angled or winged forms, often with a purple tint along the margins. Sunken areoles along the edges carry tufts of white hairs. Small flowers develop from these areoles, followed by rounded, fleshy fruits that mature purple to red. Its green stems carry out photosynthesis and store water, helping it withstand periods of dryness on tree branches. It is grown ornamentally in collections beyond its native range. Photographed in Colombia.