Rhipsalis cereuscula

Rhipsalis cereuscula, Coral Cactus is an epiphytic cactus with a multi-branched habit and small cylindrical jointed stems that have tiny bristle-like spines. These jointed stems resemble chubby grains of rice in shape giving rise to one of its common names: Rice Cactus. Small glossy bell-shaped greenish-white flowers - often tinged with pink - are borne from the terminal areoles followed by tiny white berries which gives rise to another of its common names: Mistletoe Cactus, a name given to several other Rhipsalis species. Its chunky growing-habit give it an erect stature while small but as it grows in size it becomes more pendant and will cascade over the edges of the pot.

Rhipsalis cereuscula makes an ideal houseplant and as it grows larger can be transplanted into a hanging pot. It is not hardy outdoors during the winter in the UK and suits container culture indoors in indirect light. It can however, be placed outside during summer in a sheltered semi-shady spot or used as a summer epiphyte in the nook of tree branch. Too much sun will turn it pinkish. A forest cactus, it prefers a relatively high humidity and can be misted during the summer months before bringing it indoors in late September to early October. Water sparingly or not at all during the winter.