Lepismium houlletianum aka Bolivian Leafy Cactus

Lepismium houlletianum is moderately easy to grow, though it requires different care than typical desert cacti. As a jungle cactus from the Atlantic forests of Brazil and Argentina, it needs higher humidity and more consistent moisture than its desert relatives. Once you understand it's an epiphyte that naturally grows on trees in humid forests, care becomes intuitive. The main challenges are maintaining adequate humidity in dry home environments and avoiding the temptation to treat it like a drought-tolerant desert cactus.

This species thrives in high humidity, ideally 50% relative humidity or higher. In its native Atlantic forest habitat, it grows alongside bromeliads and orchids in humid conditions. Indoor heating and air conditioning can significantly reduce humidity, so consider grouping plants together, using a pebble tray, running a humidifier, or placing the plant in a naturally humid room like a bathroom. Some growers successfully keep them in terrariums where humidity is easily maintained.

Lepismium houlletianum prefers temperatures between 10-27°C (50-80°F) and can tolerate a range of 5-30°C (41-86°F). It can survive brief exposure to near-freezing temperatures but this will slow growth. The species is frost-tender and should be protected from temperatures below 5°C. In hot climates, it benefits from cooler locations and should be kept out of intense summer heat above 30°C, particularly if humidity is low.

Feed Lepismium houlletianum with a diluted liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring through fall). A balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength works well, or you can use fertilizers formulated for cacti, orchids, or epiphytes. Some growers successfully use foliar feeding by misting with dilute fertilizer solution or seaweed extract. Reduce or stop fertilizing during winter when growth slows. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can damage the roots.

Stem cuttings are the easiest propagation method. Take cuttings of 2-3 segments during the growing season, allow them to callous for a few days in a shaded spot, then plant in well-draining mix and keep slightly moist. Roots typically develop within a few weeks. The plant can also be grown from seed, though this is less common. Sow seeds at around 25°C in high humidity on moist sphagnum moss or fine cactus mix, keeping them in bright indirect light.

As an epiphyte, Lepismium houlletianum requires an airy, well-draining growing medium rather than standard potting soil. Use a mix designed for orchids or epiphytes containing bark, perlite, sphagnum moss, and/or coco coir. Alternatively, combine regular potting soil with plenty of perlite, bark, and pumice for excellent drainage. The ideal pH is slightly acidic to neutral (5.5-6.5). The key is maintaining moisture while allowing excellent air circulation to the roots.

Lepismium houlletianum produces charming, small bell-shaped flowers that give it the common name 'Snowdrop Cactus.' The flowers are 1.5-2 cm across, creamy-white to pale yellow with a distinctive red eye from the reddish stamens. Blooms appear at the areoles along the stem margins, often opening in the evening. Under good conditions, it can flower multiple times throughout the year, sometimes producing a mass of blooms simultaneously. Pollinated flowers develop into small, globose berries that ripen from red to dark purple or black.

Lepismium houlletianum is a trailing, branching cactus with stems that can reach 1.5-2 meters (5-6 feet) in length when mature. The plant produces cylindrical primary stems that give rise to flattened, leaf-like secondary segments measuring 10-20 cm long and 1-5 cm wide with serrated margins. Growth rate is moderate, and the cascading habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets where the stems can trail gracefully. The plant width is typically 50-60 cm when grown in containers.

Lepismium houlletianum is native to southeastern Brazil and northeastern Argentina. In Brazil, it occurs in the states of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Paraná, Santa Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul, Minas Gerais, Goiás, Mato Grosso, and Mato Grosso do Sul. In Argentina, it's found in Misiones province. It may also occur in Bolivia's Yungas region, though this needs confirmation. The species grows in the Atlantic Forest biome at elevations from 300 to 1,900 meters, thriving as an epiphyte on trees and rock walls in humid, shaded conditions.

Repot Lepismium houlletianum every 2-3 years or when it becomes rootbound. The best time is during cooler months when the plant is not actively growing. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, as these plants don't need much root space. Ensure the new container has drainage holes and use a well-draining epiphytic mix. Handle carefully as the stems can be brittle. After repotting, wait a few days before watering to allow any damaged roots to heal.

Lepismium houlletianum rarely requires pruning, but you can trim it year-round to control size or shape. Remove any dead, damaged, or shriveled stems to maintain plant health and appearance. Pruning also encourages branching, creating a fuller plant. Save healthy cuttings for propagation. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears and allow cut ends to callous before any contact with moisture to prevent rot.

Lepismium houlletianum is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally suffer from mealybugs, scale insects, and aphids. Slugs and snails may also be problematic, especially outdoors or in humid greenhouse settings. The main disease concern is root rot from overwatering or poorly draining soil. Fungal issues can develop in overly humid conditions with poor air circulation. Inspect regularly, treat pests with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap, and ensure proper drainage and air movement to prevent problems.

The main recognized variety is Lepismium houlletianum var. regnellii, which differs from the typical form by having plain creamy flowers without the reddish coloration at the stamen bases that gives the typical form its distinctive 'red eye.' This variety is native to Minas Gerais, Brazil. The typical form and var. regnellii are sometimes treated as synonymous by some authorities, but POWO recognizes the variety as distinct. Both have similar care requirements and growth habits.

Lepismium houlletianum can grow outdoors year-round in USDA zones 10-12 where temperatures stay above 5°C (41°F). It thrives in protected, shaded locations such as under tree canopy or on a covered patio where it's sheltered from direct sun and frost. In suitable climates, it makes an excellent landscape plant grown on tree branches, mounted to bark, or in hanging baskets. In cooler zones, it must be brought indoors before temperatures drop below 5°C. The species does not tolerate intense desert heat and benefits from coastal or humid microclimates.

Bolivian Leafy Cactus does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Bolivian Leafy Cactus requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Red Bead Cactus is always in the right place to thrive.

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.