Mistletoe Cactus Coral Cactus

A gorgeous, upright, bushy Rhipsalis with soft green, coral like stems. In cold weather, they can have a red blush. As the plant matures and the stems elongate, they can become pendent with weight (but that will take a while).

Tiny white flowers (sometimes followed by teeny white berries) grow in the warmer months, but it is more for the foliage that this plant is grown.

Commonly seen in glossy magazines and Instagram posts, Rhipsalis are care free, trailing, epiphytic cacti. They make highly decorative container or hanging basket plants. They grow easily on patios, beneath trees or brightly lit spots indoors. They are really easy to care for and, when suitably ignored, will last a lifetime.

With multiple, advanced plants and 10-15cm growth, these potted, named varieties offer terrific value.

Rhipsalis are native to Central and South America, where they are epiphytic and live high up in trees. Other common names for Rhipsalis cereuscula are Rice Cactus (for the rice like stem joins) and Mistletoe Cactus (as for all Rhipsalis).

I SEE THE LIGHT: Bright, indirect light is ideal. You should be able to read during the day in their position in the room without turning on a light. In the hot afternoon sun, they may shrivel and change colour. Indoors they can grow well in offices with fluro lights, for 8-10 hours a day.

I NEED A DRINK: Water thoroughly, then allow the top few centimetres of soil to dry out before watering again. They will cope with a fair amount of neglect, and you will know you have forgotten about them as they shrivel and turn brown/red, but don’t despair, they will quickly pep up when you apologise and add a good dose of water. More water needed spring/summer and winter requires less care. They will tend to rot if left sitting in water – so be careful not to kill them with kindness. They can be sensitive to the chemicals in tap water, so ideally let the water sit out overnight, or use filtered/distilled water.

I WILL SURVIVE: These plants are so easy, they pretty much look after themselves. In pots ensure you choose a cactus/succulent or orchid potting mix for best results as it offers the sharp drainage they need. Choose a pot with decent drainage holes to ensure they don’t end up sitting in water. Ideally add a diluted, cactus/succulent (or any really) liquid fertiliser every other week spring/summer this will get them flowering and growing to their best. Rotate the pot regularly for even growth.