Varieties
Rhipsalis burchellii / Rhipsalis cassutha / Rhipsalis cereuscula (Coral Cactus) / Rhipsalis crispata / Pseudorhipsalis ramulosa (Red Mistletoe Cactus)
Origin
Native to Central and South America
General Care
Light
Bright filtered to bright. Tolerates direct morning sun.
Temperature
15-24°C. Keep above 10°C.
Humidity
Average to higher. For extra humidity: mist 2 times per week to daily, place pot on moist pebbles in a tray, group with other plants, or, introduce a humidifier.
Water
Weekly. Water thoroughly until moist but never wet, spring through fall. Water more sparingly in winter. Allow soil to dry partially between waterings. Always check soil moisture before watering; and aerate soil to improve soil condition.
Fertilizer
Every 2-4 weeks (at onset of buds until flowered). Use organic tomato-type fertilizer, according to packaging instructions.
Maintenance
Every 1-2 weeks, rotate plant to ensure even growth. Every 1-2 months, mist heavily to free accumulated dust and inspect plant for pests, when doing so. Trim unsightly or unruly segments with sterile shears.
Potting and Repotting
Peat-based potting mix. Every year (spring) move plant into a planter 1-2” larger (diameter and depth); or, repot in the same planter, using new potting mix, after cleaning planter and partially trimming back roots and foliage. Treat delicate segments with care.
Special Points/Common Problems:
- Puckering or soft tendrils may suggest underwatering.
- Shedding or falling growth may suggest insufficient light.
- Growth turns red/purple when exposed to direct light.
- Segments may grow to great lengths (up to 20’). Pot-up 2-3” segments or a cut branch, pressing into cactus potting mix. Treat as mature plants.