Indoor plants

Rhipsalis

Family Cactaceae. These are epiphytic cacti. Rhipsalis have become widespread both among cactus enthusiasts and among those who grow a wide variety of houseplants.

It is difficult for the average grower to classify Rhipsalis as cacti, because their appearance does not match common perceptions of cacti. This is the cause of the main mistakes in care. Rhipsalis are forest cacti; their care is special, but they are fairly undemanding. Rhipsalis look very attractive in hanging baskets or cachepots. Usually Rhipsalis bloom by Easter, i.e. flowering occurs in April - May.

Rhipsalis pilocarpa - Rhipsalis pilocarpa - stems are more robust and stiff, do not branch very much and are covered with short yellowish hairs. Under suitable conditions it blooms 2-3 times a year. It blooms quite abundantly with large yellowish flowers. The flowers have many petals and stamens, which makes them appear fluffy.

Rhipsalis cereuscula - Rhipsalis cereuscula - stems consist of thin, fleshy short segments that branch well. One could say the plant is made up of thin sticks. It can take either a trailing form or a tree-like appearance, but in the latter case it needs staking. In indoor conditions it blooms very rarely.

Temperature: Keep Rhipsalis at moderate or slightly cool temperatures around 18-20°C; in winter in cool conditions, preferably not above 15°C, minimum 10°C.

Light: The location should be bright, especially in winter, but definitely shaded from direct sunlight. Grows well near an east- or west-facing window.

Watering: From the appearance of buds — approximately from March until mid-September — water abundantly so that the soil remains constantly moist. Then gradually reduce watering and in the winter months water the soil very sparingly, but the soil should not dry out completely.

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