Rhipsalis baccifera is part of the Cactaceae family and its native range Tropical & Subtropical America, Tropical Africa and Madagascar. This species is an epiphytic tropical cactus, it has pendulous cylindrical branches. It is one of the only cactus native to Africa and it is thought this was due to migratory birds.
Genus name comes from the Ancient Greek, meaning wicker work, this is in reference to the branches which appear to interlace as they hang. The specific epithet comes from the Latin bacciferum meaning berry-bearing.
Pot: ø 9cm.
Height: Approximately 13cm from base of pot.
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 coco coir, perlite or vermiculite, orchid bark and worm castings; you could also add some horticultural charcoal to this epiphytic mix.
Fertilising: Feed your plant with a cactus fertiliser every other watering 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 baccifera 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 baccifera are non-toxic.