Rhipsalis elliptica is part of the Cactaceae family and its native range is Brazil (Minas Gerais to Santa Catarina) where it grows as a succulent epiphyte primarily in the seasonally dry tropical biome.
Rhipsalis elliptica has flat stem segments which arise from a cylindrical primary stem, leaf margins are crenate with small white-yellow flowers emerging from the notches. Branches turn red-purple if exposed to direct light.
Genus name comes from the Ancient Greek, meaning wicker work, this is in reference to the branches which appear to interlace as they hang. Specific epithet is derived from Greek and means 'about twice as long as broad', 'oblong with rounded ends', or 'elliptic’.
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. Morning light is ideal for this plant.
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 with a cactus fertiliser 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 elliptica 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 elliptica is non-toxic.