Forest Cactus - Rhipsalis crispata

Scientific Name
Rhipsalis crispata (curly wickerwork plant)

Common Name
Mistletoe Cactus, Forest Cactus

Origin
Native to tropical South America, especially Brazil

Description
In its rainforest home, this cactus grows in the nooks and crannies of trees, where it is protected both from harsh sun and soggy soil. Unlike its desert cousins, it is not adapted to perpetually dry environments! Ensure when placing it in your home and watering it that it gets bright but indirect light and that it is able to be moist without having waterlogged soil, and it will reward your care with lush green foliage that will bring the rainforest right into your home! This species' flat, branching foliage is certainly unusual-looking, and it will really catch the eye when hanging from your wall or creeping down from a tall shelf.

Light
Forest cacti like bright, indirect light; they will appreciate a couple of hours of sunlight per day but not much more, and can tolerate lower light levels too as long as they are watered less in a dimmer spot.

Water
In indirect light to deep shade, let the soil dry out between waters; in brighter, direct light only let the top third dry out.

Humidity
Average humidity is fine, just make sure it's not too close to a heater.

Soil
Use a cactus & succulent mix, or one with added coir or bark for drainage; repot every three years in spring as the plant grows. If it's flowering, keep it pot-bound a little longer to prevent it getting shocked by the move and losing flowers.

Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.

Temperature
Temperatures of about 18-26°C are great- make sure it doesn't drop below 10°C in winter.

Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!

Sprouts Top Tips
Rhipsalis may be cacti, but they like more water than their desert cousins; make sure they drain well and aren't left soggy while also not drying out completely- keep an eye on your plant to get the water rightfor it. Yellowing leaves are a sign of too much water, while with too little, the leaves will start to go crispy and your plant stop growing.