The rhipsalis cereuscula also known as the coral cactus or mistletoe cactus is a unique and easy to care for houseplant. This trailing epiphytic cactus is a great option for beginner gardeners looking to add something new and visually interesting to their plant collection. With proper care, the rhipsalis cereuscula will reward you with its exotic cascading stems and minimal maintenance needs.
About the Rhipsalis Cereuscula
The rhipsalis cereuscula is a species of epiphytic cacti that originates from tropical regions of South and Central America. Unlike most cacti it grows as a hanging plant rather than upright. In the wild, it can be found growing on trees or rocks where its long tendrils will hang downwards.
There are over 35 species of rhipsalis, but the rhipsalis cereuscula is one of the most popular It features cylindrical green stems that can grow up to 3 feet long. These stems are dotted with small spines that are so tiny they are barely noticeable. At maturity, the plant will develop small white flowers at the end of its stems
One of the best things about the rhipsalis cereuscula is its adaptability. It does well as a hanging basket plant or trailing down from a high shelf. The stems can also be trimmed to maintain the plant’s size and shape.
Caring for Your Rhipsalis Cereuscula
Light
Rhipsalis cereuscula thrives best in bright indirect sunlight. Some morning or evening direct sun is tolerated, but afternoon direct sun will scorch the plant. Place your rhipsalis about 6 feet away from a South or West facing window. Avoid low light areas.
Water
Water your rhipsalis cereuscula whenever the top inch of soil becomes dry. This is usually every 1-2 weeks. The soil should be kept lightly moist but not soggy. Allow the soil to dry out some between waterings.
The best way to tell when your rhipsalis needs water is to look for drooping or puckered stems. Water thoroughly until water drains from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. An occasional misting will help boost humidity.
Temperature & Humidity
Rhipsalis cereuscula prefers average room temperatures between 65°F-80°F. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations. Higher humidity is appreciated – maintain 40-50% humidity if possible. Group your rhipsalis with other plants or use a humidifier to help raise the humidity.
Soil & Fertilizer
Use a well-draining cactus or succulent soil. Add perlite or pumice to improve drainage. Re-pot every 2 years in spring using fresh cactus/succulent soil.
Fertilize monthly in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Do not fertilize in fall and winter.
Pruning & Shaping
Light pruning can be done anytime to maintain the plant’s shape. Cut back drooping or damaged stems using clean shears. Never prune more than 1/3 of the plant at one time.
Propagation
Rhipsalis cereuscula is easily propagated by cuttings. Take 3-4 inch cuttings in spring or summer. Allow the cut ends to dry and callous over before planting in soil. New plants can also be started by layering – pin a stem to the soil and wait for roots to form.
Common Problems
Overwatering is the most common cause of issues. Drooping, yellowing leaves indicate too much water. Brown crispy stems mean underwatering. Mealybugs, spider mites and scale can sometimes be pests on rhipsalis. Inspect regularly and treat with horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps.
With the proper care, the rhipsalis cereuscula makes for a uniquely easy and interesting houseplant. Its exotic appearance and trailing nature help bring texture and interest to indoor spaces. Follow these simple care guidelines and this adaptive cactus will thrive for years to come.
LuEsther T. Mertz Library Plant & Research Guides
Rhipsalis cereuscula (coral cactus) produces greenish-white flowers; photo courtesy of Flickr cc/Salchuiwt
Mistletoe cactus and coral cactus (Rhipsalis)
An important factor in determining the suitability of a plant to your home and envisioning the care it will need, is to know the origin of the plant. Plants that are native to desert regions will require substantial amount of sunlight and loose, fast-draining soil. Plants from the floor of a rainforest will need some protection from strong sunlight and generous humidity.
Rhipsalis is a genus of numerous species, many of which are commonly known as mistletoe cactus or coral cactus. These plants are epiphytic or lithophytic* ,tropical cacti, primarily native to the tropical and subtropical forests of Central and South America. Tropical cacti typically grow in a pocket of moss or debris in the crook of a tree branch or a rock. So despite the humid, jungle conditions of their native habitats, these cacti are adapted to grow in a media that is prone to dryness.
Tropical cacti are succulents, with areoles, but differ considerably in appearance from desert cacti. Like Christmas or Easter cacti, mistletoe and coral cacti are leafless and composed of branching stems. Many are admired for their attractive, pendant architecture more than their flower display, though the flowers can be numerous and, in some species, are scented.
Imagine the understory, filtered light of a tropical cacti’s natural habitat. These plants prefer a medium source of light year-round and will die if exposed to prolonged, direct, summer sun. Morning sun only is ideal. Rotating the plant is beneficial but not essential.
Water frequently in spring and summer, keeping the soil consistently moist but not standing in water run-off. Watering frequency should vary as your house heats up and cools down with the seasons. During the pre-flowering period, reduce watering, letting the top ½ inch of soil dry out between waterings. After flowering, water only enough to keep soil barely moist for a period of three to six weeks. Rhipsalis do not like hard water and should, ideally, be watered with rainwater.
Mist your mistletoe or coral cactus daily to compensate for the inhospitable dryness of a Northeastern home.
Tropical cacti like warm household temperatures most of the year, but with a rest period after flowering and again while setting buds to re-bloom. To form flowers, mistletoe and coral cacti need to be moved to a spot with lower temperatures (below about 65° F.) for a month or two after flowering and again before setting buds. (See Encouraging your Rhipsalis to flower below). Do not expose them to temperatures below 50°F.
Mistletoe and coral cacti prefer a rich soil with excellent drainage. Many commercial cacti and potting soil mixes rely too heavily on peat, which holds moisture in the soil longer than is desirable for these plants. In general, mixing one part perlite (for drainage) with one part potting soil, one part peat and one part coarse orchid bark (for structure and nutrition) creates an excellent soil for most jungle cacti. You will notice that while this mix is fast draining, it will hold more moisture than a desert cactus mix. Plants that are potted in the wrong mixture will initially do well but may later suffer from root rot associated with excess water retention in the soil.
Re-potting your plant annually after flowering is essential for your mistletoe or coral cactus, even though its small roots are unlikely to outgrow the container. Generally, a clean pot of the same size with fresh soil is fine as slightly tight conditions benefit flowering. Handle the plant carefully as you move it so as not to break off the delicate segments.
When flower buds begin to form, use a tomato-type fertilizer every two weeks through the flowering period and then monthly for the rest of the year, except for the rest period following flowering. Do not use a high nitrogen fertilizer on these plants or any other succulent.
Mistletoe and coral cacti do best if they have a period of rest after they finish blooming of a month or two and they need to experience lower temperatures and longer nights to set new buds. If your mistletoe or coral cactus will not re-bloom, it is most likely that one of these elements has been missed in its yearly routine. In particular, your cactus will not set buds if kept at normal household temperatures above 68° F. in the bud formation period. Bud formation and bloom may also inhibited by the presence of artificial light at night, so household lamplight and even streetlights can be a problem. Once the buds are set, do not move your cactus.
During the flowering period, keep temperatures above 60°F and water normally, as directed above.
Your cactus then needs a rest period for about two months following flowering. During this time the cactus should be watered less frequently, not fed, and kept relatively cool (around 55°F).
After the rest period, you can increase water, temperature and re-start your feeding program. About two months before bloom-time, keep your plant dry-ish and cool again until buds form, at which point you can resume regular watering.
Mistletoe and coral cacti benefit from the air circulation when placed outdoors during the summer months but keep them in medium shade. The stems will harden with this outdoor exposure and your chance of a strong flower display will improve.
Do not overwater; if your plant begins to turn yellow at the tips you are giving it too much water and causing the cellular structure to rupture.
*epiphytic = growing on but not feeding from another plant; lithophytic = growing on rocks.
Rhipsalis Cereuscula or Rice Cactus | Jungle cactus care for beginners
FAQ
Does Rhipsalis like sun or shade?
Rhipsalis thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some shade. It’s ideal for indoor settings or shaded outdoor areas. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate stems, so filtered light is best.
How often do you water rhipsalis cereuscula?
Water frequently in spring and summer, keeping the soil consistently moist but not standing in water run-off. Watering frequency should vary as your house heats up and cools down with the seasons. During the pre-flowering period, reduce watering, letting the top ½ inch of soil dry out between waterings.
Do Rhipsalis like to be misted?
PRO TIP: Native to tropical environments, Rhipsalis appreciate a good misting now and again. Consider working in a misting bottle to your watering routine. Always be sure to assess your plant’s watering needs upon receiving it.
Can Rhipsalis take full sun?
Rhipsalis HATE direct sunlight. You’ll know she’s been tanning for too long when the edges of her stems start turning red and shrivelled.