Mistletoe Cactus: Overview

Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera) is a charming small plant with thin, thread-like foliage, which is why it’s also known as Spaghetti Cactus. It’s an epiphytic cactus, with long, trailing branches. It has the airiest look out of all the other Rhipsalis varieties. The Mistletoe Cactus blooms in cream-colored flowers, which turn into white berries that look like mistletoe, giving the plant its name. This gorgeous holiday plant is a must-have this Christmas.

This tropical succulent is most suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. It’s native to the tropical areas of South America, Africa, and Madagascar; it is also occasionally found in the Everglades in Florida, where it’s listed as an endangered plant. It grows best in bright but indirect sunlight and is not the most easy-care plant. The trailing Mistletoe Cactus care involves creating the right growing conditions to reach this charming plant’s full potential. This unusual beauty is non-toxic and pet-friendly, making it a wonderful choice for pet owners.

The Rhipsalis Cactus symbolizes resilience, abundance, and steadiness in many cultures.

Mistletoe Cactus: Benefits

• Easy to care for
• Improves air quality because it produces oxygen at night 
• Adapts to high moisture levels in the air
• Great gift plant for the holidays
• Pet-friendly plant

Rhipsalis Baccifera Care Guide

There are several things to keep in mind for the best Mistletoe Cactus care. Follow our tips to keep your Rhipsalis in great shape:

Watering and Humidity

Being a succulent the Rhipsalis Baccifera Mistletoe Cactus stores water in its stems. Water sparingly, as the soil needs to dry between waterings. Avoid overwatering your Cactus Mistletoe, as this plant is susceptible to root rot. As this plant is native to rainforests,it requires higher humidity than other cacti. Use a humidifier or group your Mistletoe Cactus with other indoor plants to boost humidity.

Light and Temperature

The charming Rhipsalis Mistletoe Cactus thrives in bright but filtered light. It can also adapt to partial shade indoors. Keep your Cactus away from direct sun rays; they can scorch the delicate foliage. For the best Rhipsalis Baccifera care, provide warmer temperatures, ranging from 50°F to 80°F. This tropical plant can react negatively to sudden temperature drops or cold drafts.

Soil and Repotting

The best Mistletoe Cactus soil should be a well-draining succulent and cacti mix, as this plant doesn’t tolerate overwatering. Repot your Rhipsalis plant when it grows too large for its pot, or about once every three years. The best time for repotting your cactus is in the springtime, at the very beginning of the growing season.

Feeding and Propagation

Feed your plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength in the spring and summer. This will help it develop strong stems. Rhipsalis Baccifera propagation is simple; take several cuttings from your plant and leave them to callus overnight. Then plant the cuttings in well-draining cacti soil and keep it moist.

Cleaning and Common Problems

Clean your plant’s foliage from dust by misting it and then wiping it gently with a soft cloth. Trim the stems a little if they get too long and use the cuttings for Mistletoe Cactus propagation.

Soft, wilting stems are a sign of overwatering - the most common issue with this cactus. If you notice the tips of your Mistletoe Cactus’ branches turning brown, the culprit is most often lack of humidity.

Trailing Mistletoe Cactus: Placement, Companion & Alternative Plants

The delicate, trailing foliage of the Mistletoe Cactus makes your Rhipsalis Baccifera plant the perfect choice for hanging containers or shelves; it looks amazing on its own or in combination with other hanging plants.

Best Locations & Uses

• Suitable for experienced plant enthusiasts
• Great drought-tolerant plant
• It’s ideal for humid environments, like bathrooms
• Amazing holiday plant for your festive decor
• Perfect for pet owners

Companion Plants

Choose some gorgeous companions for your hanging Mistletoe Cactus from these beautiful flowering plants that are simply perfect for the holidays:

• Pink Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii 'Pink'): The delicate blooms of the Pink Christmas Cactus that blossom just in time for the holidays make this plant a great holiday plant and gorgeous gift; just provide enough light and humidity for this beauty.
• Red Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima): Also known as the Christmas Star, the vibrant Red Poinsettia adds glamor and old-time charm to the holiday season; place this gorgeous plant where it will receive sufficient light and watch it bloom throughout the festivities.
• Peace Lily Plant (Spathiphyllum): The lovely Peace Lily is an easy-care plant that produces snowy white flowers with a pleasant aroma throughout the year if given enough light.

Alternative Plants

If you love plants with eye-catching foliage, check out these lovely alternatives to the trailing Mistletoe Cactus:

• Red Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii 'Red'): The stunning Christmas Cactus often blooms from November to February, which is why it’s such a popular holiday plant.
• Frosty Fern (Selaginella kraussiana): The adorable Frosty Fern looks like a mini evergreen with frost-tipped branches; it’s perfect for terrariums and humid environments like bathrooms.
• Baby Blue Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus pulverulenta ‘Baby Blue’): Popular in floral arrangements for its ornamental, blue-green foliage, Baby Blue Eucalyptus is an easy-care plant you can grow in a pot at home or plant in your garden.

Bring on the Festive Mood with a Mistletoe Cactus for Sale From Lively Root

Enhance your holiday decorating with a charming Mistletoe Cactus for sale from Lively Root!