Mistletoe cactus care guide
Rhipsalis
Also known as: Rhipsalis, Jungle cactus
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Mistletoe cactus
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 7 days
- Close to a spring-fall grower: water when the surface dries, as a guide, and in midsummer wait a day or two after it dries.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- Growing again: water once the surface dries, about weekly, and mist the stems on dry days.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 14 days
- Indoors it dries slowly, so water sparingly a few days after the soil dries, as a guide, adding a mist in heated rooms.
Light and placement for Mistletoe cactus
Generally bright light through a sheer curtain; an epiphyte by nature, it dislikes direct sun, and midsummer sun turns the stems reddish and scorched, while deep shade makes them thin and stringy.
Overwintering Mistletoe cactus
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
As a guide, bring it indoors when nights drop below about 10°C and keep it above 5°C at a bright window, set back a little from the cold glass.
Fertilizing and repotting Mistletoe cactus
Fertilizer
Diluted liquid feed about once or twice a month in April to June and September to October, none in midsummer or winter; heavy feeding softens the stems.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Mistletoe cactus
- Placed in direct sun, the stems scorch reddish brown.
- Watered before the soil dries, the roots rot and the stems wilt and fall.
- Dry air from a heater shrivels the stems.
Tips for growing Mistletoe cactus
- It trails, so a hanging pot or a shelf edge shows it off.
- A few segments cut, dried, and set in soil root easily.
- Empty the saucer and let the pot feel light before watering again.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
