Rhipsalis, often known as “mistletoe cacti” or “jungle cacti,” are a distinctive genus of epiphytic flowering plants within the cactus family. These unique plants are gaining popularity as houseplants due to their striking appearance and relatively straightforward care. Their diverse forms and trailing habits offer an appealing aesthetic for indoor plant enthusiasts.
Shared Characteristics of Rhipsalis
Rhipsalis are primarily epiphytic, growing on other plants or trees in their native tropical forest habitats. They absorb moisture and nutrients from the air and accumulated debris rather than directly from the soil or host plant. Some species can also grow on rocks or in the ground.
Unlike most desert cacti, Rhipsalis generally lack prominent spines. Their stems are succulent, varying in thickness and form across species, from thin and filiform to thick and segmented. These plants exhibit a pendulous or trailing growth habit. They produce small flowers, usually white or pinkish, followed by berry-like fruits that can be white, pink, red, or yellow.
A Gallery of Rhipsalis Varieties
Rhipsalis baccifera
Rhipsalis baccifera, also known as Mistletoe Cactus or Spaghetti Cactus, is notable for its widespread distribution, being the only cactus species naturally found outside the Americas, including parts of Africa and Sri Lanka. It features long, slender, pendulous branches that are typically cylindrical, though they can become flattened and segmented as they mature. It produces small white or pale pink berry-like fruits.
Rhipsalis cereuscula
Rhipsalis cereuscula, often called Coral Cactus or Rice Cactus, is characterized by its profuse, bushy growth composed of numerous tiny cylindrical stems. These small segments are borne at the ends of longer, slender branches, creating a delicate, branching appearance. The plant can grow up to 60 cm long and is much branched.
Rhipsalis cassutha
Rhipsalis cassutha, another Mistletoe Cactus variety, features light green, pencil-like stems that cascade gracefully. In its natural habitat, this species produces narrow, thread-like stems that can wrap and twist around trees, reaching several meters in length. It is similar to R. baccifera but generally has thinner stems.
Rhipsalis pilocarpa
Rhipsalis pilocarpa is distinguished by its stems and fruits densely covered in fine white hairs or bristles, giving it a fuzzy appearance. Its cylindrical stems initially grow upright before becoming more pendulous with age. This species produces fragrant white or peach-colored flowers, typically in mid-autumn to early winter, followed by small pink or red berries that are also covered in bristles.
Rhipsalis paradoxa
Rhipsalis paradoxa, known as “Chain Cactus” or “Link Cactus,” has a unique structure with fleshy stem segments linked together like a chain. These segments are often flattened and can be three-lobed, growing one on top of the other to create elongated stems. The stems are typically green, sometimes with purplish tinges.
Rhipsalis mesembryanthemoides
Rhipsalis mesembryanthemoides features a distinctive appearance with strong main stems densely covered by tiny, short branchlets, creating a clumpy or bushy look. The main stems are woody and cylindrical, initially growing upright before becoming pendulous. It produces white, short-oblong fruits.
Rhipsalis floccosa
Rhipsalis floccosa is characterized by its thin, cylindrical stems, which often appear covered in fine white hairs, giving it a fluffy or woolly texture. These stems can grow up to 60 cm in length. It produces greenish-white to very pale pink flowers, followed by pinkish-white fruits. Various subspecies exist, some with yellow-green or red-tinged stems.
Rhipsalis trigona
Rhipsalis trigona, also known as Three-Angled Mistletoe Cactus, is recognized by its long, slender stems that are distinctly three-angled or ribbed. These segmented stems can grow quite long. The stems are typically fresh green, sometimes developing a reddish flush under brighter light. It produces white or yellowish flowers, followed by red, globose fruits.
Key Features for Identification
Identifying Rhipsalis species involves observing specific morphological characteristics of their stems, branching, and reproductive structures. These features help differentiate between the many varieties.
Stem morphology is a primary identifier; observe if the stems are round, cylindrical, flattened, or angular. Observe if stems are uniform or composed of distinct segments, and if their shape varies along the plant’s length. Branching patterns are another important clue. Some Rhipsalis exhibit dichotomous branching where stems divide into two, while others may have whorled, irregular, or chain-like patterns.
Areoles, the small fuzzy spots from which new growth, flowers, and bristles emerge, are also useful. Observe if these areoles are prominent, inconspicuous, or bear fine bristles or hairs. Flower color (white, pink, yellow, or red) and shape provide distinguishing details. The berry-like fruits, which appear after flowering, also offer identification points based on their color, translucence, and whether they are smooth or bristly.