Rhipsalis baccifera
A variable species of epiphytic cactus, with slender, trailing, cylindrical green or pale blue-green stems. Young stems bear sparse woolly areoles with a few bristly spines, these often disappear as the stems mature. Small, funnel-shaped white or greenish-white flowers are produced along the stems, usually from winter to spring but sometimes year round. These are followed by small, round, translucent white or pale pink berries
Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green White | Blue Green | White Pink | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green White | Blue Green | White Pink | |
| Autumn | Green White | Blue Green | White Pink | |
| Winter | Green White | Blue Green | White Pink |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Trailing
- Genus
Rhipsalis are epiphytic perennials with branched stems that may be cylindrical, winged or leaf-like, and small funnel-shaped flowers followed by berry-like fleshy fruits
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Tropics
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow under glass in an epiphytic cactus compost, in bright indirect light with high humidity. Mist daily with soft water. Water moderately when in growth and apply a dilute low nitrogen fertilizer monthly. Keep just moist in winter. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation
Propagation
Propagate by seed, sown at 19-24°C, or by stem cuttings in spring or summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- hanging basket
- Houseplants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required, though stems can grow to metres long, and may be trimmed if required
Pests
May be susceptible to mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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