Rhipsalis aka Mistletoe Cactus
Taxonomy
Common names
Mistletoe Cactus, Rhipsalis Floccosa, Rhipsalis 'Ramaloris'How to care for Mistletoe Cactus
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Mistletoe Cactus, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Mistletoe Cactus does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
To keep your Mistletoe Cactus healthy, it's important to use a potting soil that won't retain too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Mistletoe Cactus prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Mistletoe Cactus plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Humidity
Mistletoe Cactus plants thrive in dry environments, however, if you choose to provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on the leaves can create an ideal environment for certain types of harmful fungi.
Fertilizer
The Mistletoe Cactus is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Region of origin
Mistletoe Cactus’s native range is Central, South America, and the Caribbean.
More info:
Wikipedia