NOPALXOCHIA PHYLLANTHOIDES 
(DEUTSCHE KAISERIN) 
This is one of the oldest known species of the cascading free-flowering variety 
(B. & R.). Its true origin is not known. In 1651 it was found growing in Colombia, 
South America, and was figured by Hernandez in that year. It is also found growing 
in Mexico as Nopalxochia phylanthoides, has travelled through many countries for 
many centuries and been known by many names, but the name that has remained is 
Deutsche Kaiserin, or German Empress, which was given to it by a German botanist. 
Thus do we span the ages from the Aztec to the modern European. And while we know 
this species only from cultivated forms, we do know also that it was used as a parent 
in making hybrids many generations ago, although in the past we have not found 
many of this size and formation. 
Over twelve years ago we chose this lovely lady to be the mother of a new line 
of hybrids, and today we have many of her children coming into flower. These new 
Deutsche Kaiserin crosses were made with great consideration given to the retention 
of the small, graceful flower and compact growth. These hybrids have retained many of 
her fine qualities, her floriferousness, fine growth and delicate formation, to which 
have been added fine combinations of colors and greater vigor of growth. These dainty 
flowers may be enjoyed from the time their buds start forming until in full bloom. 
They flower over a long period of time and frequently give flowers out of season. 
We have been well rewarded for our work and patience. 
Any of these plants do well in baskets or pots; they are more attractive and grace- 
ful when allowed to follow their natural, cascading habits. The plant stems are small 
and compact; they require more protection from extreme heat and cold than the 
larger flowering types because of the finer growth. Exposure to extreme cold may 
cause the plant stems to become mushy; when this occurs cut the stems back to where 
you have healthy tissue; the wound may be dusted with a Hormone powder and kept 
dry for a few days. The one thing which is most harmful is allowing the sun to strike 
a plant that has been exposed to extreme cold; this will cause a burn which will have 
the appearance of rust; in case of extreme exposure to strong sun, brown spotting or 
blistering may occur, having the appearance of a disease. Planting instructions for 
the species and hybrids are the same as for other varieties. 
GERMAN EMPRESS SPECIES. Light pink, tubular corolla, with flaring deep 
rose-pink back petals. Small plants, 5Cc; larger, $1.50. 
