Rhipsalis grows best indoors in indirect, filtered light conditions with acidic soil.
It likes moist soil but not soggy wet and warmer temperatures that never dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Some morning sun is ideal.
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Keep an eye out for pale leaves, which could mean the plant needs more light.
Soil
A typical cactus pottingmixshould be fine for aRhipsaliscactus, ideally containing some organic material.
They can also do well with a standard potting mix blended with even parts of sand.
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Water
Keep these plants moist, but do not allow them to sit in standing water.
Falling leaves can signify that the plant is overwatered.
Temperature and Humidity
These plants like warm tropical temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Rhipsalis plants are not tolerant of frost and like considerably more humidity than the typical desert cactus.
During the dry months of winter, some growers like to provide extra moisture with a room humidifier.
Feeding, following product label directions, every two weeks is a regular routine.
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Rhipsalisis the most prominent genus, comprised of over 40 species prized for their thin intertwining stems.
Most of these species are obscure tropical cacti that exist only in the rainforest.
Rhispalisbaccifera(mistletoe cactus) is the most common species, native to tropical Africa.
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All other species are South American natives.
Pruning
Pruning and pinching back stems will help encourage the stems to branch out more.
Spring to summer is the best time to propagate these plants.
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Cuttings root more reliably and grow faster than plants via seed germination.
Containers can be reasonably small and shallower than you would use for most houseplants.
Some growers prefer clay or terra-cotta pots because they “breathe,” helping prevent root rot.
This cactus does not mind being rootbound.
Repot these cacti every couple of years.
Freshen the growing medium and ensure continued good drainage.
To repot a cactus, use gloves.
Lift the plant, replant it in a larger container, and backfill the pot with soil.
Larger infections, however, might require the use of an eco-friendly pesticide.
Mealybugs are another common problem, evidenced by tiny web-like structures on the leaves.
A systemic pesticide is the best treatment for mealybugs.
How Long Does Rhipsalis Bloom?
Flowers last up to 8 days; once they fade, they produce berry-like fruit.
What Do Rhipsalis Flowers Look and Smell Like?
Some rhipsalis flowering species have a slight scent, and some have no fragrance.
The flowers are small, star-like creamy white flowers at the ends of the stems.
Its biggest needs are controlling its environment to give it its optimal growing conditions.
Give more water more frequently but do not make the soil soggy.
Yellowing Stems
If a plant gets too much water, its stems start to yellow and pale.
Also, growth stops when overwatered.
A plant in need of light will also exhibit these symptoms.
Rhipsalis cacti do not like bright sun and too much water.
These plants are well suited to an indoor environment where you’re able to control those variables.
Pruning and pinching back stems will help encourage the stems to branch out more.
To produce a bushier plant, add stem cuttings directly to the same pot.
It can be challenging for some growers to monitor all these variables closely.
The mystery of the world’s least American cactus.
