Rhipsalis clavata - Mistletoe Cactus

Rhipsalis clavata, commonly called the Mistletoe Cactus, is a trailing cactus species native to the Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil. It occurs in warm, humid, and shaded habitats, usually attached to tree branches where it benefits from filtered canopy light and steady atmospheric moisture.

The stems are slender, cylindrical, and smooth, with segments that can reach considerable lengths. Branching occurs from the tips, producing long, pendent growth that can form dense curtains over time. The species name refers to the slightly club-shaped appearance that some stem segments develop as they mature.

Small, white flowers are produced along the stems, often in the warmer months, followed by rounded, whitish berries. These fruits are dispersed by birds, enabling the plant to spread through its native forest habitat.

Care Tips:

• Light: Provide bright, indirect light; avoid prolonged direct sun which can damage stems.
• Water: Keep the media evenly moist during active growth, allowing the surface to dry slightly before rewatering; reduce watering in winter.
• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity; mist occasionally in dry indoor air.
• Media: Use a free-draining mix with fine orchid bark, peat or coir, and perlite.
• Temperature: Best maintained between 15–27°C; protect from frost.
• Fertiliser: Feed every 4–6 weeks during the growing season with a diluted, balanced fertiliser.
• Repotting: Repot every 2–3 years or when root-bound, ideally in spring.