Rhipsalis agudoensis is part of the Cactaceae family and its native range is SW Brazil. It was first described by Nigel P. Taylor. Rhipsalis agudoensis is known to be from a single site and collection attributed to Agudo, in the centre of the state of Rio Grande do Sul (Taylor 2003), although it is now used commonly across Brazil in garden design. It is an epiphytic cactus with pendant growth and stem segments which give a winged appearance. Growth becomes sunstressed if exposed to higher light conditions. Floral buds develop on the surface of the branches, flowers are cream coloured and dainty.
Genus name comes from the Ancient Greek, meaning wickerwork, this is in reference to the branches which appear to interlace as they hang. The specific epithet is in reference to the area the plant is native to.
Light: Bright indirect light, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive. In its natural environment this plant would receive dappled light.
Water: With adequate light and a well draining potting mix, allow the top two inches to dry out before watering.
Potting mix: A well draining mix composed of a small amount of coco coir, perlite or vermiculite, orchid bark, horticultural grit and worm castings; you could also add some horticultural charcoal to this epiphytic mix.
Fertilising: Feed your plant every few waterings during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: 18-24˚C.
Humidity: Rhipsalis agudoensis would prefer higher humidity but do well to adapt to average home humidity. You can increase humidity by placing the plant on a watered pebble tray or using a humidifier.
Rhipsalis agudoensis is non-toxic.