Rhipsalis cereuscula aka Coral Cactus

Rhipsalis cereuscula is a cactus known as rice cactus or coral cactus. It belongs to the cactus family, Cactaceae. Its native range includes Brazil, Bolivia, northern Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. It grows in moist tropical forests, from lowlands into hills. This succulent epiphyte grows on tree trunks, sometimes on rocks. Farm and town growth threaten its habitat in northeastern Brazil.

The plant forms a bushy clump with many branches. Its stems can reach about 2 feet [0.6 metres] long. Young shoots may stand upright before they spread and trail. Pale green stems have a round cross section. Long shoots bear clusters of short stems at their tips. These small end stems give the plant its rice-like look. Some resemble small clubs, while others look almost round. Roots grow along the longer stems and help them cling. Closely spaced areoles bear a few fine, clear bristles. These bristles fall off soon after they form.

Flowers appear from winter into spring, near the stem tips. They hang down and have a small bell shape. Their colour ranges from white to cream with pink tones. They open by day and last for several days. The flowers have no scent. Pale yellow anthers sit on white filaments within each flower. Rounded or egg-shaped berries follow the blooms. Most are white, though some plants outside Brazil bear red fruit. The fruit contains thick, jelly-like pulp and black seeds. Dried flower parts remain at the top of each berry.

This cactus needs a loose mix rich in organic matter. An orchid-style mix suits it better than standard cactus soil. Water must drain freely through the pot. Give more water in summer than most cacti need. Let the mix dry a little between waterings. Light weekly watering and some misting suit its stated needs. It cannot withstand frost and needs winter nights above 5°C. Bring it indoors for winter except in the mildest climates. Protect it from strong heat as well as cold.

Its trailing form suits a hanging basket as it grows. It also adds fine texture to mixed succulent displays. A single pot can show its dense branching well. LLIFLE describes it as easy to grow and tolerant of neglect. It can live indoors or spend warmer months outdoors under shelter. Stem cuttings provide a way to raise new plants.