
Is Rhipsalis Pachyptera a succulent?
Rhipsalis pachyptera is an epiphytic or lithophytic succulent plant, semierect to somewhat pendent, spineless, freely branching, 0.7-1.5 m long. The stems are robust, with many large wide leaf-like joints that are often referred to as leaves.
Is Rhipsalis mesembryanthemoides an epiphytic plant?
Rhipsalis houlletiana has stem-like, light green shoots. Each shoot can form two different types of branches: It has thin bristles, and produces many yellowish-white flowers. Rhipsalis mesembryanthemoides is an epiphytic plant with strong stems covered by tiny branchlets.
What is the difference between a Rhipsalis cactus and a spurge?
That is the most obvious difference. Spurge plants do not have to be toxic (not all are), but the sap causes skin irritation in many people and, when consumed, causes malaise, stomach cramps and vomiting. Rhipsalis cacti are usually considered to be conditionally poisonous or unknown, which is certainly not helpful.

How do you take care of Rhipsalis?
They prefer lightly moist, but not wet soil, but ensure they have ample time to dry out to avoid water buildup in the soil that can rot the roots. Rhipsalis will let you know when it's thirsty because its tendrils will start to pucker and lose rigidity.
Is mistletoe a succulent?
The mistletoe cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera) is a tropical epiphytic plant in the cactus family that is beloved as a houseplant for its unique pencil-thin foliage and trailing growth habit....How to Grow and Care for the Mistletoe Cactus.Botanical NameRhipsalis bacciferaPlant TypeSucculent10 more rows•Jan 3, 2022
Does Rhipsalis like sun or shade?
It includes Rhipsalis mesembryanthemoides will grow in full sun, so they're perfect for balconies and big, wind-blown areas.
Is Rhipsalis indoor or outdoor plant?
indoorsWhen grown as houseplants, however, they are usually grown indoors in a cactus potting mix as hanging or draping plants. It is rare to grow them as garden plants, though a potted Rhipsalis can be moved outdoors in summer to a patio or deck that's out of the direct sunlight.
Is Rhipsalis a cactus?
Rhipsalis is a genus of numerous species, many of which are commonly known as mistletoe cactus or coral cactus. These plants are epiphytic or lithophytic* , jungle cacti, primarily native to the tropical and subtropical forests of Central and South America.
Is Christmas cactus a Rhipsalis?
About Mistletoe Cactus Part of the Cactaceae family, the botanical name of Mistletoe Cactus is Rhipsalis Baccifera. It is also commonly known as Spaghetti Cactus, Old Man's Beard, and Pencil Cactus.
Can you grow Rhipsalis from cuttings?
Rhipsalis cereuscula “Coral Cactus” can be propagated from stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting from the stem using a sharp, sterilized knife or pair of scissors. Allow it to dry out for a day or two, and then place the cutting in well-draining soil. Water when the soil is completely dry.
Can you grow Rhipsalis in water?
Epiphytic Rhipsalis cacti are one of the few types of cacti that can be propagated in water.
Should I trim Rhipsalis?
Prune to maintain size and remove dead foliage. Best propagated by stem cutting during periods of active growth. Repot every few years to refresh soil or increase pot size as your Rhipsalis grows. Overwatering can result in root rot.
Can Rhipsalis grow in shade?
The grownup name for this cactus is Rhipsalis mistletoe cactus. This cactus is found in Florida, Mexico, and Brazil. Surprisingly, growing Rhipsalis requires shade to partial shade. While most cacti are found in hot, sunny, arid zones, mistletoe cactus is unique in its requirements for moisture and dim light.
Can Rhipsalis grow in low light?
Rhipsalis will do well as indoor plants or in those areas that receive low light. They do best with morning sun and full shade in the afternoon. In its native habitat, rhipsalis receives plenty of protection from the sun's rays with surrounding dense, overhanging tree branches.
Why is my Rhipsalis dying?
These are common with too much soil moisture, an improper soil medium or deep shade. If the foliage directly above the soil line becomes brown and mushy, the chances are root rot has occurred; take stem cuttings on non-affected growth by following the tips mentioned in 'Propagation'.
How do you propagate mistletoe succulents?
How To Propagate Mistletoe Cactus PlantsLet it dry out for a few days until the cut surface has become callused.Take a mixture of moist sphagnum and sand and plant the shoot a couple of inches down.The shoot will need adequate humidity to take root.Cover it with plastic until you can see it has taken root.More items...
How do you take care of mistletoe cactus?
Ensure that your mistletoe cactus is planted in well-drained soil. Potted plants benefit from a saucer filled with rocks and water to increase the ambient humidity in the home interior. The plant rarely needs fertilizing and has few other needs except moderate light and even moisture.
Can you grow mistletoe cactus indoors?
Grow mistletoe cactus in low to medium light. It can take a little direct sun indoors, especially in Northern climates, but doesn't need bright sun to thrive. This indoor plant thrives under artificial lighting, too. Our mistletoe cactus don't want any direct sun if grown outdoors.
Is mistletoe a poisonous plant?
About poison: Mistletoe has a reputation as a poisonous plant. While the European species Viscum album is reportedly toxic, American mistletoe is not deadly. Better to keep it away from little kids and pets, though, and if you are concerned, stick with artificial mistletoe for decorative purposes.
Where does the rhipsalis come from?
Rhipsalis is a genus of epiphytic cacti. They are typically known as Mistletoe cacti and most occur in Brazil. The scientific name derives from the Ancient Greek term for wickerwork, referring to the plants' habitus. Rhipsalis is one is part of the tribe Rhipsalideae within the subfamily Cactoideae of the Cactaceae.
What is the largest cacti?
Rhipsalis is one is part of the tribe Rhipsalideae within the subfamily Cactoideae of the Cactaceae. It is the largest and most widely distributed genus of epiphytic cacti. Click on the photo or the name of the succulent plant for which you wish to see further information. Back to Browse Succulents by Genus.
Where are rhipsalis native to?
All species are native to the rainforests of South America, the Caribbean, and Central America, leading to their classification as jungle cacti. The difference between the native environments of jungle and desert cacti means that caring for Rhipsalis requires overcoming any pre-conceived notions you might have about what cacti prefer.
What is the name of the mistletoe cactus?
One of the most popular species is Rhipsalis baccifera, also known as Mistletoe Cactus. While many people think of the prickly plants that are native to the American deserts when they hear the name " cactus ," most Rhipsalis have no needles, and they would not survive the dry soil and bright sun of a desert.
Can rhipsalis be planted in clay?
Rhipsalis does best when planted in clay pots. The advantage of clay pots is that they allow the soil to "breathe" better than other types, helping to dissipate moisture that could rot the plant's roots. Most species produce long, hanging leaves that make them ideal hanging plants, so when selecting pots, many people choose styles that can be placed in a metal or macramé plant hanger.
Can rhipsalis be grown in direct sunlight?
Lighting Requirements. Rhipsalis does not thrive in direct sunlight. Exposure to afternoon sun can burn the leaves, turn them yellow, or lead to spotting. However, without sufficient sunlight, they will not bloom, and its growth can be stunted.
Is rhipsalis drought resistant?
Rhipsalis is not a drought-resistant plant, so regular watering is essential. Overwatering, however, can cause weak stems and rotted roots. Using a watering can help you measure the amount of water you are providing. The size of the pot, compared to the size of the plant, the humidity levels in the home, and the type of potting soil used can all ...
General Information
Also known as: Coral Cactus, Rice Cactus, and Mistletoe Cactus. Plant Family: Cactaceae Origin: Native to Central and South America. Height: 61cm (24”) Exposure: Partial sunlight for up to 6 hours. Water Needs: Only water the soil when it’s 100% dry. Soil Type: Standard commercial succulent soil or cactus mix with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand added for better drainage. Soil pH: 5.0 to 6.5.
How to Grow and Care for Rhipsalis Cereuscula
Rhipsalis Cereuscula will brighten up your outdoors as a part of a container garden or the indoors as a hanging succulent. It’s an easy succulent to grow and care for if you follow our simple tips below.
How to Propagate Rhipsalis Cereuscula
Are you happy with how Mistletoe Cactus looks in your garden that you plan to add more?
Soil
This plant grow best in soil with a mixture of sand, peat moss, and perlite. Make sure the pot has drainage holes so that water does not accumulate at the bottom where it can rot roots. The container should be deep enough to allow for plenty of rooting space but no more than two-thirds full.
Watering
Paradoxa plants need plenty of water. Water your plant when the soil is dry to a depth of about two inches, but don’t let it sit in standing water for more than an hour. You should also try not to wet its leaves and avoid getting water on the flowers as much as possible, as this may lead to rot.
Light
Rhipsalis plants need plenty of light. You should place the plant in an area that receives a lot of direct sunlight and avoid putting it next to a window with curtains or blinds, as this may cause your plant’s leaves to burn.
Humidity
When it comes to humidity, the plants are not native to areas with high humidity and will do better when they live in a dry climate. Avoid placing your plant in an area where it receives too much water, as this can lead to rot or root loss.
Temperature
They can survive in mild climates, but they’re happiest when they live in a dry climate with an average daytime temperature of about 20-25 degrees Celsius.
Feeding
If you want your Rhipsalis Paradoxa plant to thrive and grow well, it needs plenty of fertilizing. You should water your plant with a diluted fertilizer solution and fertilize it every two weeks.
Rhipsalis Fertilizer Needs
The Rhipsalis plants need plenty of fertilizer, so you should water your plant with diluted fertilizers and fertilize it every other week. There are no known pests that target Rhipsalis Paradoxa plants but keep an eye out for any bugs on the leaves as these may be sucking sap from the plant.
How big is a Rhipsalis trigona?
Rhipsalis trigona is a pendent much-branched epiphytic cactus that reach up to 6.6 feet (2 m) in length. The stems segments are stout, 3-angled, often curved or twisted, and up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) in diameter. It has white or pale pink flowers.
Can rhipsalis grow in direct sunlight?
How to Grow and Care. Rhipsalis do not thrive in direct sunlight. Exposure to afternoon sun can burn the leaves, turn them yellow or lead to spotting. However, without sufficient sunlight, they will not bloom, and its growth can be stunted.
Is rhipsalis drought resistant?
Picturing this environment can help you adjust your lighting accordingly. Rhipsalis is not a drought-resistant plant, so regular watering is essential. Overwatering, however, can cause weak stems and rotted roots. Using a watering can help you measure the amount of water you are providing.
What is a rhipsalis ewaldiana?
Rhipsalis ewaldiana “Mistletoe Cactus” is the perfect addition to your hanging baskets, especially in areas of your home or garden that don't receive a lot of light. It does best when planted in a terra cotta or clay pot.
How to grow a cactus from cuttings?
To grow “Mistletoe Cactus” from cuttings, use a sterile, sharp knife or pair of scissors. Remove a stem from the main plant, and allow it to callous for several days before placing on well-draining soil. Water whenever the soil has dried out completely.
Can mistletoe cactus be planted in the house?
New growth turns a bright yellow-orange color, then a deeper green as it gets older. Although “Mistletoe Cactus” grows well indoors, it should not be planted near windows, as it has a tendency to burn easily.

Characteristics of The Rhipsalis
- Plant genus from the cactus family
- It is characterized by branched, interwoven thin shoots
- Also known as chain cactus or mistletoe cactus
- Many species come from South America, from the rainforests
- Plant genus from the cactus family
- It is characterized by branched, interwoven thin shoots
- Also known as chain cactus or mistletoe cactus
- Many species come from South America, from the rainforests
Caring For Rhipsalis Cacti
- Rhipsalis cacti are extremely easy to care for. You only have to have a hand for watering. They shouldn’t be too wet or too dry. Other than this, the plant substrate and the appropriate location are important. The Rhipsalis cannot stand direct, bright sun; they are rainforest plants that live in the penumbra of the large trees. It is only fertilized until the flowers open, never in winter. You do…
Propagation
- The propagation is quite reliable. Cuttings are used that are separated from the mother plant. These take root relatively quickly and are best done in spring and summer. It is important that you do not plant immediately after the cut, but allow it to dry off first. Propagation by seeds is also possible, albeit more complicated.
Diseases and Pests
- Illnesses are quite rare if the care conditions are followed. Too much moisture damages the roots and causes them to rot very quickly. When it comes to pests, it is mainly mealybugs that bother the cacti. They need to be discovered early before they can reproduce. Mealybugs can be recognized by fine, white webs and cotton-like small structures. They suck out the sap and can d…