Cacti on Trees: The Unique Appeal of Rhipsalis and Its Relatives.
Did you know that some cacti can actually grow on trees? Plants like Rhipsalis, Lepismium, and Pseudorhipsalis are excellent examples, and according to plant expert Tony Le-Britton, they make perfect houseplants.
“These are some of my favorite plants, and I have them hanging all around my home,” shares Tony, known on Instagram as @notanotherjungle. “They add a unique touch to any space, and their resilience means they can be left to dry out completely before needing water. They require very little extra care, and mine have thrived without being repotted for years!”
In the latest episode of “Plants with Impact,” the spotlight is on Rhipsalis baccifera—commonly known as the mistletoe cactus. This eye-catching, tropical trailing plant is not only easy to care for but also has the ability to grow berries. In its natural habitat, Rhipsalis is an epiphytic plant, meaning it grows on the surface of trees. Native to the jungles of Central and South America, this plant is truly distinctive. Rhipsalis features long, slender succulent stems, often referred to as “spaghetti cactus,” and produces tiny white flowers followed by small, mistletoe-like berries. It cascades beautifully over the sides of pots or hanging planters, making it a stunning addition to any home decor.
Mistletoe Cactus Care Tips
Light:
Mistletoe cactus thrives in bright, indirect light, but a touch of early morning or late afternoon sun will help it flourish.
Watering:
1. Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry.
2. Avoid letting it sit in water; give it a good soak but ensure proper drainage.
Tony adds, “I water my tree cacti thoroughly. I take them outside and hose them down, but if that’s not possible, you can pop them in the shower for a deep soak, making sure the water drains off properly.”
Feeding:
Fertilize every other time you water throughout the year.
How to Propagate Mistletoe Cactus
“These plants have a clever way of spreading,” Tony explains. “After flowering, they produce berries filled with black seeds, surrounded by sticky mucus.” To propagate, there are two methods you can try:
Method One:
1. Press open a berry to release the seeds, then wipe them onto a piece of cork bark.
2. Place the bark in an airtight container with a little water, then close it to maintain humidity. The seeds will germinate, and roots will attach to the bark. Once the leaves appear and grow a few inches long, you can either pot them in soil or leave them on the bark. Hang the bark and spray it a few times a week to keep the plant moist.
Method Two:
Break off a piece of the plant with a node, lay it on damp soil, and cover it with cling film or place it in an airtight container. Within a few weeks,
it will root, giving you a new, beautiful plant.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the unique beauty of Rhipsalis and its relatives in your own home, adding a touch of the wild to your living space.