Rhipsalis clavata

🌿 Rhipsalis clavata, commonly known as the Drunkard's Dream or Mistletoe Cactus, is a member of the Cactaceae family and belongs to the genus Rhipsalis. Native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil, this epiphytic cactus grows naturally on tree branches in humid, shaded environments where it cascades downward. Unlike typical desert cacti, it thrives in moisture and filtered light. This is a beginner-friendly plant that adapts well to average home conditions. Here's a fun fact: despite being a cactus, it produces tiny white berries that resemble mistletoe, which is how it earned one of its charming nicknames.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This plant has a trailing growth habit with slender, segmented stems that hang gracefully from its pot. The stems are cylindrical and branching, creating a cascading effect that works beautifully in hanging baskets. The foliage is a soft green colour with a slightly glossy texture. Each segment is narrow and club-shaped, giving the plant a delicate, almost fern-like appearance despite its succulent nature.
FLOWER DETAILS
Rhipsalis clavata produces small, creamy white flowers that appear sporadically throughout the year, though flowering is most common in late winter to early spring. The blooms are star-shaped and lightly fragrant, adding a subtle sweetness to the air. While the flowers are petite, they create a charming contrast against the green stems and are followed by small white berries. To encourage flowering, provide bright indirect light and maintain consistent care through the growing season. The delicate blooms and berries add unexpected visual interest to an already appealing plant.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS

🌞 Light: Bright indirect light is ideal. It tolerates lower light but may not flower. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the stems. Provide 4-6 hours of filtered light daily.
💧 Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. In spring and summer, water every 5-7 days. In fall and winter, reduce to every 10-14 days. Bottom watering or a gentle top pour works well. This cactus prefers consistent moisture without being waterlogged.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers 50-70% humidity. It adapts to average home humidity but appreciates occasional misting or a pebble tray.
🪴 Soil: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or orchid bark for extra aeration.
🏺 Potting: Choose a shallow pot with drainage holes. Plastic or ceramic works well. Repot every 2-3 years in spring when roots fill the pot.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate. Expect 6-12 inches of new growth per year. Mature plants can trail 2-3 feet.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly in spring and summer with a diluted half-strength cactus or houseplant fertilizer. Skip feeding in fall and winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: Yes. This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe choice for homes with pets.

WHERE TO PUT IT
Rhipsalis clavata looks stunning in hanging baskets or on high shelves where its trailing stems can cascade freely. It works well in bathrooms with natural light due to the higher humidity, and it's equally at home in living rooms or bedrooms near east or north-facing windows. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, such as south or west-facing windowsills without sheer curtains, as this can damage the stems. Keep it away from cold drafts or heating vents, which can dry out the plant.
RARITY ASSESSMENT
common