Rhipsalis (mistletoe cactus)

Graceful Rhipsalis houseplants

The Rhipsalis is one of the easiest houseplants you can own. It asks very little in terms of light and water, and forgetting to water it once is no disaster. Instead of leaves, the Rhipsalis has unique stems that range from thin to thick and from long and ribbed to short and curly. That variety makes the Rhipsalis a trendy, eye-catching houseplant.

The Rhipsalis belongs to the cactus family and originally comes from Africa. It also grows on several islands in the Indian Ocean, where it adapts to tropical conditions. All of which makes the Rhipsalis a strong, versatile plant, also known as the mistletoe cactus.

Watering the Rhipsalis

The Rhipsalis is easy to care for and needs little water. Only water once the soil has dried out, and give small amounts rather than a lot in one go. Too much water can lead to root rot, which you will obviously want to avoid. If the Rhipsalis gets too much water it drops its stems. If you see that happening, cut back on the water. When it gets too little, the stems shrivel; water a little more often then, but still in moderation.

Not sure whether your Rhipsalis needs water? Then it is better to wait. This cactus-like plant would rather be slightly too dry than too wet. In summer it needs a bit more, roughly 2 to 3 times a month, while once a month is enough in winter. Keep an eye on the room temperature, the light intensity and the pot size to work out the right amount of water.

Misting the Rhipsalis

Misting the Rhipsalis is not essential, but it can help, especially if it stands near a radiator. Misting removes dust and any pests from the stems, which keeps the plant looking its best.

The best spot for the Rhipsalis

The Rhipsalis is not fussy about where it stands, but avoid a place in direct sunlight all day. Partial shade is ideal. Somewhere too dark, the plant uses less water, which increases the risk of root rot, while too much light makes the stems pale. If the plant is growing well, you have found the right spot. The Rhipsalis is happy at temperatures between 10 and 21 degrees Celsius and can even stand in a conservatory or garden room. Just remember to bring it inside when temperatures drop.

Repotting the Rhipsalis

Repot the Rhipsalis after you buy it, into a pot that is 20% bigger than the previous one. Use cactus potting soil and try not to damage the roots. Because the Rhipsalis grows slowly, it only needs repotting once every 3 to 4 years, preferably in spring.

Giving the Rhipsalis extra plant food

The Rhipsalis needs little extra plant food because it grows so slowly. Only feed it in the spring and summer months, when it is in its growing phase. In winter extra food is not needed and can even do harm. Use cactus or succulent food and never give more than the recommended dose.

Pruning the Rhipsalis

In general the Rhipsalis does not need pruning. If it does develop unsightly or overly long stems, you can simply snip them off. Those cut stems are perfect for propagating.

Propagating the Rhipsalis

The Rhipsalis is easy to propagate. Cut off a stem of about 10 centimetres and put it in fresh potting soil. Give the cutting very little water until it has formed roots.

The flowering of the Rhipsalis

The Rhipsalis rarely flowers indoors, but when it does, small white flowers appear. Sweet as they are, they cost the plant a lot of energy, so you are better off removing them.

Is the Rhipsalis a toxic houseplant?

The Rhipsalis is mildly toxic. Touching it does little harm, but eating the stems is not advisable. Put the plant somewhere safe if you have small children or pets.

Common diseases in the Rhipsalis

The Rhipsalis is not prone to many diseases, but it can occasionally suffer from aphids or spider mite. Tackle them with a hard jet of water or use a suitable pesticide.

Buying a Rhipsalis at Green Bubble

Looking for a healthy, strong Rhipsalis? At Green Bubble you buy directly from the grower, so you can count on fresh, high-quality plants. Do not feel like going to the shop? Simply order online and we will deliver your Rhipsalis to your door for free. Quality and convenience, that is what Green Bubble stands for!