Mistletoe Cactus
Rhipsalis baccifera
Unusual trailing cactus with cascading pencil-thin green stems that can reach over 1m long. A rainforest cactus — no spines, prefers shade, and needs more water than desert cacti. Produces small white berries resembling mistletoe.
Best rooms for mistletoe cactus
Light requirements
Best near a window with filtered light — avoid harsh direct rays.
Tolerates shade and north-facing windows with limited natural light.
How to care for mistletoe cactus
Bright indirect light or light shade — avoid direct sunlight. Water when the top 2cm of compost dries. Unlike desert cacti, rhipsalis likes slightly moist conditions. Mist occasionally. Use a well-draining orchid or epiphyte mix. Feed monthly spring-summer. Minimum 10°C.
Watering
Water when the top 2–3cm of compost feels dry. Roughly weekly.
Propagation
- Stem cuttings — snip a section and pot in moist compost
Toxicity
This plant is not known to be toxic to cats or dogs.
Common problems
- Shrivelling stems from underwatering
- Stem rot from waterlogged compost
- Slow growth in deep shade
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