Rhipsalis baccifera "Spaghetti Cactus"

The various species of the Rhipsalis genus of cacti belong to a larger Rhipsalideae family that includes three other genera. These are somewhat different than most cacti, as they are without spines, do well without any direct sun, and need a good amount of water. These draping, cascading cacti have long, thin, intertwined stems, an unusual trait among cacti.

Further, most of these species are primarily either lithophytic (growing on rocks) or epiphytic (growing on trees) rather than terrestrial plants that grow in soil. When grown as houseplants, however, they are usually grown indoors in a cactus potting mix as hanging or draping plants. It is rare to grow them as garden plants, though a potted Rhipsalis can be moved outdoors in summer to a patio or deck that's out of the direct sunlight.

Plants in the Rhispalis genus include several species that are common houseplants, but for many people, a single species, R. baccifera (mistletoe cactus), is the only species they'll ever encounter. This single species is unusual since it is the only member of the Rhipsalis genus that is also found growing in tropical Africa—the other species are all South American natives. Some botanists conjecture that seeds of mistletoe cactus were originally transplanted across the Atlantic by migratory birds.

PLANT CARE

• Light: Thrives best in bright, indirect light with morning and evening sun
• Water: Allow soil to dry out between waterings
• Considerations: Rhipsalis cacti are quite slow-growing species, which is fortunate since some specimens can grow up to 20 feet long after many years.

WHAT TO EXPECT

You'll get a healthy Rhipsalis that meets our rigorous quality standards in a 15cm nursery pot, other planters are sold separately. No two plants are alike, and yours will have its own unique shape, size, and personality; expect this natural variation from the photos.