Rhipsalis pachyptera

Rhipsalis pachyptera is a succulent cactus from southeastern and southern Brazil. It grows on trees as an epiphyte, or on rocks. Kew places it in the seasonally dry tropical biome. Unlike many familiar cacti, it has broad, flat stem joints. These look like leaves but form the plant's branching stems. The plant has no spines and can live for years.

Its stems grow partly upright, then hang as they lengthen. Plants reach about 2.3–4.9 feet [0.7–1.5 metres] in length. The stout stems branch freely, most often at their tips. Lower sections may be round, while upper joints flatten out. These broad joints feel thick, firm, and leathery. Their shape ranges from oval to almost round. Most measure 0.36–0.82 feet [0.11–0.25 metres] long. Their edges have deep scallops, and their veins stand out. Green stems may take on red or purple tones. Aerial roots sometimes grow in rows along the central vein.

Flowers open in winter along the scalloped stem edges. Each areole may bear one flower or a small cluster. Some produce as many as thirteen blooms. The flowers have a sweet scent and a wheel-like shape. Their spreading tepals range from greenish white to cream or yellow. Outer tepals may have red tips. Many white stamens fill the flower's centre. The blooms sit close to the stems on very short tubes. White fruits follow the flowers.

This forest cactus needs some shade and high air humidity. LLIFLE describes it as easy to grow and tolerant of neglect. Its roots need an organic growing mix, not standard cactus soil. The source suggests mixes based on peat or sphagnum moss. Such mixes also serve orchids and other epiphytes. Give ample water in summer, but let the mix dry slightly between waterings. Its water needs exceed those of many other cacti.

Frost can harm this species, so it needs protection from cold. Keep night temperatures at or above 41°F [5°C], including in winter. Stem cuttings offer a way to raise new plants. Its hanging stems, broad joints, and winter flowers provide its main ornamental interest. The supplied evidence gives no species-specific pest or disease details. It also does not establish whether the fruits are edible or the plant is toxic.