Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis) is a unique epiphytic cactus, appreciated for its trailing appearance. While its long, slender stems create an appealing display, the small, delicate flowers are a particular highlight for many growers.
Mistletoe Cactus Flower Characteristics
Mistletoe Cactus flowers are small, typically 5 mm to 1 cm in diameter. They are star-shaped or funnel-shaped, appearing in white, cream, or pale pink. These modest flowers emerge along the plant’s stems, often in large numbers when the plant is thriving.
Most Rhipsalis varieties bloom from late winter to early spring, though some can flower year-round. Each individual flower typically lasts for up to eight days. While many Rhipsalis flowers do not have a strong fragrance, some species may emit a slight scent.
Optimizing Conditions for Flowering
To encourage your Mistletoe Cactus to produce its charming blooms, provide environmental cues that mimic its natural jungle habitat.
Bright, indirect light is preferred for optimal growth and flowering. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the delicate stems, hindering blooming. Conversely, insufficient light leads to leggy growth and a reduced number of flowers. Placing the plant near an east-facing window with sheer curtains can provide a balanced light exposure.
Watering practices significantly influence the blooming cycle. Rhipsalis prefers consistent moisture; soil should be lightly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings during the growing season. A slightly drier period in late fall to early winter, where the soil is barely moist for three to six weeks, is crucial for initiating flower bud development.
Temperature plays a role in encouraging blooms. Rhipsalis plants benefit from cooler temperatures during their dormancy period. The plant needs one to two months of temperatures between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit (10-18 degrees Celsius) to form flowers. During the active growing season, temperatures between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (15-27 degrees Celsius) are suitable. Avoiding sudden temperature changes, such as from cold tap water, is also beneficial.
Mistletoe Cacti appreciate moderate to high humidity levels, ideally around 50-70%, to mimic their natural rainforest environment. Increased humidity can significantly enhance their blooming potential. Regularly misting the plant, using a pebble tray filled with water, or grouping plants together can help increase ambient humidity.
Fertilization supports overall plant health and flower production. During the growing season, feeding monthly with a diluted, low-nitrogen fertilizer is recommended. When the plant is budding or in bloom, switching to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus, such as a “Tomato” food, can help prolong the flowering process. Avoid feeding in winter.
For potting, a well-draining, slightly acidic mix is preferred, such as a gritty cactus potting mix or one composed of peat moss, sand, and bark chips. Rhipsalis plants are often more tolerant of being slightly pot-bound, and frequent repotting can hinder flowering. Repotting every two to three years, or when the plant outgrows its container, is generally sufficient.
After the Bloom Fruit Development
Once the delicate flowers of the Mistletoe Cactus fade, they give way to the development of distinctive, berry-like fruits. These small fruits are what lend the plant its common name, as they resemble mistletoe berries. They are typically spherical or somewhat elongated and can range in color from white to pale pink or even red.
These fruits add another layer of ornamental interest to the plant and can persist for several months. They are translucent and contain small seeds. The development of these fruits is a natural progression after successful flowering and pollination.