Rhipsalis goebeliana aka Mistletoe Cactus

Rhipsalis goebeliana is considered an easy-care plant and is well-suited for beginners. Often described as 'fuss-free' and forgiving, this jungle cactus tolerates a range of indoor conditions and doesn't require the precise care that many tropical plants demand. Its main requirements are indirect light and regular watering, making it less demanding than most houseplants.

Rhipsalis goebeliana propagates easily from stem cuttings year-round. Select healthy, firm stems and cut below a node at a 45-degree angle. Allow the cut end to callus for a few days, then plant 1-2 inches deep in moist, well-draining soil. Keep in bright indirect light and maintain humidity. Roots typically develop within 2-4 weeks, with new growth appearing after 6-8 weeks.

Rhipsalis goebeliana is a slow-growing trailing cactus that can eventually reach lengths of up to 3 feet (90cm). The stems cascade downward, making it ideal for hanging baskets where the pendant growth can be displayed. With a spread of approximately 2 feet (60cm) and a long lifespan of around 30 years, this plant rewards patience with increasingly impressive displays over time.

Yes, Rhipsalis goebeliana produces charming small flowers approximately 1cm in size along the edges of its flat stem segments. The blooms begin as yellow buds and open to creamy white. A standout feature is their notable fragrance—unlike many Rhipsalis species, these flowers are highly perfumed. Flowering typically occurs in late winter to early spring, and successful pollination may result in small, translucent berry-like fruits.

Rhipsalis goebeliana thrives in typical room temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C), with an optimal range of 68-75°F (20-24°C). As a tropical plant, it cannot tolerate cold and should never be exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Avoid placing it near cold drafts, air conditioning vents, or heating sources. Maintain steady temperatures during bud formation to prevent flower drop.

Rhipsalis goebeliana requires minimal pruning. As a trailing plant, it naturally develops a cascading form without intervention. Pruning is only needed to remove damaged or broken stems, or to control size if stems become too long for your space. Always use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears sterilized with rubbing alcohol to prevent disease spread.

Rhipsalis goebeliana prefers being slightly pot-bound and only needs repotting every 3-4 years. Repot when the plant significantly outgrows its container or when the soil needs refreshing. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one with excellent drainage holes. Use a well-draining epiphytic mix with orchid bark and perlite. Clay pots are preferred as they promote air circulation around the roots.

The most common pest affecting Rhipsalis goebeliana is mealybugs, which appear as white cottony masses on stems. Scale insects can also occur. Treat infestations with neem oil, insecticidal soap, or remove manually with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab. Root rot is the most serious disease concern, caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Spider mites may appear in dry conditions. The plant is otherwise generally disease-resistant when given proper care.

Yellow stems on Rhipsalis goebeliana typically indicate overwatering. These jungle cacti need more moisture than desert species but still suffer from waterlogged soil. Check that your pot has adequate drainage and allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering frequency, especially in winter. Exposure to excessive direct sunlight can also cause yellowing and scorching of the stems.

Drooping in Rhipsalis goebeliana can indicate either overwatering or underwatering. Overwatered plants will have soft, mushy stems that droop limply, while underwatered plants show puckered or shriveled stems. Check the soil moisture to determine the cause. If stems feel soft and soil is wet, reduce watering and check for root rot. If stems appear wrinkled and soil is dry, water thoroughly and increase watering frequency.

Rhipsalis goebeliana can grow outdoors year-round only in USDA zones 10-11, where temperatures remain above 50°F (10°C). In cooler climates, it can be placed outdoors in summer in a shaded location with good air circulation, but must be brought inside before temperatures drop in fall. Choose a spot protected from direct afternoon sun and heavy rain. The plant benefits from outdoor summer exposure but is not frost-tolerant.

Mistletoe Cactus’s native range is Central, South America, and the Caribbean.

Mistletoe Cactus does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

To ensure the health of your Mistletoe Cactus, it's crucial to use a potting soil that won't hold too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to store-bought cactus soil is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.

Mistletoe Cactus thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Mistletoe Cactus.

Mistletoe Cactus prefers dry environments, so misting the plant to provide extra humidity and allow water to linger on the leaves can create an ideal environment for fungi that can be harmful.

The growth rate of Mistletoe Cactus is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

During the wintertime, it's common for Mistletoe Cactus to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.