Mistletoe Cactus Rhipsalis teres
ABOUT
Rhipsalis teres, commonly known as the Mistletoe Cactus, is a unique and intriguing plant that adds a touch of greenery to any space. This cactus is characterized by its long, slender, cylindrical stems that gracefully hang and drape over the edges of containers. The overall form of the plant is bushy, with multiple segments branching out from the main stem. The stems are of a soft green hue and can often exhibit a slight yellow or red tinging, specifically when exposed to high light levels or during stress. Texture-wise, the Mistletoe Cactus is quite smooth without the typical spines seen on most cacti, making it a friendly addition to a home environment. The stems are often segmented and can have fine notches or indentations regular intervals. Unlike many other cactus species that thrive in arid environments, the Mistletoe Cactus is part of the cacti group that prefers more humid conditions, reflecting its tropical origin. During its blooming cycle, the Mistletoe Cactus can produce small, inconspicuous flowers that may go unnoticed. The flowers often have a pale coloration, leaning towards white or cream, and they are followed by berry-like fruits that also retain a rather muted appearance. The fruits contrast modestly against the green stems and add a subtle hint of color to the plant's overall appearance. As an epiphytic plant, the Mistletoe Cactus does not grow in the traditional sense in soil but instead can be found in the wild attached to trees. This gives the plant its airiness and delicate structure, perfect for hanging baskets or elevated planters where its pendulous stems can be showcased. Overall, the Mistletoe Cactus presents as a cascade of soft green ropes, offering a unique and lively presence that can add a touch of the exotic to both indoor and outdoor settings. Its low-maintenance nature, combined with its atypical cactus appearance without sharp spines, makes it a popular choice for those looking to integrate houseplants into their living spaces without the concern of dealing with the prickly defenses of other cacti.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Cactaceae.
Synonyms
Mistletoe Cactus, Coral Cactus, Wickerware Cactus, Slender-Stemmed Rhipsalis.
Common names
Hariota teres, Epiphyllum teres, Rhipsalis elliptica, Rhipsalis puniceodiscus, Rhipsalis teres f. puniceodiscus, Cereus teres.
ToxicityTo humans
Rhipsalis teres, commonly known as Mistletoe Cactus, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting any part of the plant should not result in serious toxicity. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of the reach of small children who might chew on them out of curiosity, as individual allergic reactions or digestive upsets could occur even with non-toxic plants.
To pets
Mistletoe Cactus is not known to be toxic to pets. It is typically safe for cats and dogs if they happen to ingest small amounts. However, it is always important to discourage pets from eating houseplants as a general precaution, and to monitor them for any signs of an adverse reaction, such as gastrointestinal upset, which might result from ingesting foreign material.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters
Plant type
Cactus
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Brazil
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance: Rhipsalis teres, commonly known as Mistletoe Cactus, is easy to care for and requires minimal watering and feeding.
- Drought-Tolerant: Adapted to sparse watering, it can survive periods of drought, making it ideal for busy plant owners or those in drier climates.
- Unique Aesthetic: Offers an interesting visual appeal with its cascading branches and slender, pendant stems, adding a tropical touch to any interior.
- Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to pets, making it a safe choice for households with animals.
- Adaptable to Indoor Lighting: Can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, from bright, indirect light to lower-light areas within the home.
- Space Efficient: Its vertical growing habit and hanging potential make it suitable for small spaces or as a hanging plant, not requiring extensive horizontal room.
- Easy Propagation: Propagates easily from stem cuttings, allowing for simple sharing of the plant with friends and family.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Mistleton cactus can be used in hanging baskets due to its natural draping growth habit, adding a unique aesthetic to indoor and outdoor spaces.
- The plant is often incorporated into living walls or vertical gardens, providing a textured contrast to other foliage due to its slender, pendant stems.
- Creative crafters use dried stems of Mistleton cactus to create natural jewelry, such as necklaces or earrings, capitalizing on the plant's unique form and texture.
- Enthusiasts of miniature gardens or fairy gardens use Mistleton cactus to mimic miniature trees or shrubs, providing a lush backdrop for tiny scenes.
- During festive seasons, the cactus can be used as a natural ornament, where tiny lights or decorations are entwined within its branches for a subtle, festive look.
- Mistleton cactus can sometimes be used in terrariums, though they need ample space to hang and must be carefully managed due to their growth habit.
- Art installations and public spaces may utilize the plant for its cascading nature to create living sculptures that change and grow over time.
- In photography and film, Mistleton cactus can be used as an organic prop to add greenery and depth to interior scenes.
- Gardeners may train the stems of the cactus onto trellises or frames, crafting living curtains or green dividers in outdoor spaces.
- Due to its hardiness and low maintenance nature, the plant is sometimes used in educational settings to teach children about plant care and horticulture.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Mistletoe Cactus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adaptability: Being a type of cactus, the Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis teres) can grow in various climates and conditions, symbolizing the ability to thrive in diverse environments.
- Resilience: As a succulent, this plant can retain water and endure long periods without rain, symbolizing endurance and the ability to withstand hard times.
- Nurturing: In some cultures, the Mistletoe Cactus is associated with protection and caring for others, as it is often found in protective habitats and can provide shelter for some species.
- Harmony: The Mistletoe Cactus often lives in symbiosis with trees, symbolizing balance and living in harmony with one's surroundings.
WaterMistletoe Cactus prefer their soil to be moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly, allowing the water to run through the drainage holes, but make sure the pot is not left standing in water. During the growing season, typically from spring to fall, water the plant every 1 to 2 weeks with about 8 to 16 ounces of water, depending on the size of the pot and the environmental conditions. Reduce watering in the winter months to every 3 to 4 weeks or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
LightMistletoe Cactus thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It is best to place the plant in a spot where it will receive filtered light, such as near a north or east-facing window. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can cause the leaves to burn. Artificial lighting can also be used if natural light is insufficient.
TemperatureThe Mistletoe Cactus enjoys a temperature range between 60°F and 80°F, which is typical in most home environments. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 50°F, making it unsuitable for frosty conditions. The ideal temperature for this cactus is around room temperature, making it a great indoor plant.
PruningPruning the Mistletoe Cactus is primarily done to remove any dead or damaged stems and to maintain its desired shape. It is best to prune in the spring, which allows the plant to recover and produce new growth. Prune as needed, but usually no more than once a year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMistflower requires well-draining soil with added organic matter such as peat or coconut coir, mixed with perlite or pumice for aeration. The ideal soil pH for a Mistflower should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingMistflower should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. This will ensure continued growth and health of the plant.
Humidity & MistingMistflower thrives in high humidity conditions, ideally between 50% to 70%. If the air is too dry, consider using a pebble tray or humidifier to raise humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Mistflower in bright, indirect light with high humidity.
Outdoor
Grow Mistflower in shaded areas, protect from direct sunlight.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleRhipsalis teres, commonly known as Mistletoe Cactus, begins its life cycle as a seed, often dispersed by birds that have consumed the fruit. After seed dispersal, germination occurs in a suitable environment, typically in crevices on host trees where it lives as an epiphyte. The seedling stage involves the development of very small stem segments, which gradually form hanging, cylindrical, jointed stems as the plant matures. During its growth, Mistletoe Cactus develops small, white to pale pink flowers that are often followed by white or light-colored berry-like fruits. The plant reaches reproductive maturity within a few years, and the cycle repeats with seed production and dispersal. Throughout its life, Rhipsalis teres continues to grow vegetatively, producing new stem segments and branching to increase its overall size.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: The Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis teres) is often propagated through stem cuttings, which is the most popular method. The ideal time for propagation is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, select a healthy stem and cut a piece that is about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long. Allow the cutting to callus over for a few days by leaving it in a warm, dry location out of direct sunlight. Once the end has hardened slightly, plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix intended for cacti and succulents. Keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a bright area with indirect sunlight. Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks, after which the plant can gradually be acclimated to the same conditions as a mature Mistletoe Cactus.
