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Plant Profiles / Mistletoe cactus
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Mistletoe cactus
Rhipsalis baccifera · Rhipsalis
A spineless jungle cactus with long, pencil-thin trailing stems and small white berries. Perfect for hanging baskets.
Bright indirectLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright indirect
ShadeFull sun
Filtered light; tolerates lower light.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Water when the top 2–3 cm is dry.
Humidity
Moderate to high
LowHigh
Likes humidity.
Temperature
12–30°C (54–86°F)
CoolWarm
Keep above 10°C (50°F).
Growth
Moderate, trailing
SlowFast
Trails to 1–2 m.
Soil
Chunky, airy
LeanRich
Orchid bark and cactus mix.
Fertiliser
Monthly in summer
RarelyOften
Diluted fertiliser.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to pets.
About this plant
Rhipsalis baccifera is the only cactus found naturally outside the Americas, in Africa and Sri Lanka. It grows on trees in rainforests and likes indirect light and regular water.
Best spots
Hanging baskets, high shelves, bathrooms and bright rooms.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Rhipsalis baccifera |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Origin | Tropical Americas, Africa & Sri Lanka |
| Plant type | Epiphytic cactus |
| Mature size | Trails 1–2 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Spines | None |
| Flowers | Tiny cream flowers |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Fertilise
Water less
Active growthFertiliseWater less
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Shrivelled stems | Underwatering. |
| Rotting base | Overwatering. |
| Pale stems | Too much sun. |
| Stems dropping | Sudden changes or dryness. |
| Mealybugs | Treat with alcohol. |
Common questions
Does it have spines?
No.
Can it handle low light?
Better than most cacti.
Is it pet safe?
Yes.
How do I propagate it?
Root stem pieces in moist mix.
