Rhipsalis pilocarpa

🌿 Meet the Hairy-Stemmed Rhipsalis, scientifically known as Rhipsalis pilocarpa, a member of the Cactaceae family. Native to the humid forests of Brazil, this epiphytic cactus grows naturally on tree branches, where it cascades downward in its tropical home. Despite being a cactus, it's adapted to shade and moisture rather than desert conditions, making it a beginner-friendly choice for indoor growers. Fun fact: unlike typical cacti, Rhipsalis species produce small, berry-like fruits that were likely spread by birds in their native rainforests.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This plant has a trailing growth habit, with slender, cylindrical stems that hang gracefully from the pot. The stems are covered in fine, soft hairs that give the plant a fuzzy appearance and help it retain moisture. The colour is a fresh green with a slightly silvery or grey tone due to the hair covering. The texture is soft to the touch, almost velvety, which is unusual for a cactus and adds to its charm.
FLOWER DETAILS
The flowers are small, delicate, and typically white or pale cream in colour. They have a simple, star-like shape with multiple petals radiating from the centre. There's usually no strong fragrance, but their subtle beauty adds a gentle aesthetic appeal. Flowering happens sporadically throughout the year, often in late winter or early spring. To encourage blooms, provide bright indirect light and avoid overwatering during the cooler months when the plant naturally rests.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS

🌞 Light: Bright indirect light is ideal. Can tolerate lower light but may grow slower. Aim for 4-6 hours of filtered light daily. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the stems.
💧 Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. In spring and summer, water every 7-10 days. Reduce to every 2-3 weeks in fall and winter. Bottom watering works well to avoid wetting the stems.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers 50-70% humidity but adapts to average home levels around 40%. Benefits from occasional misting or a pebble tray.
🪴 Soil: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Add perlite or orchid bark for extra drainage and aeration.
🏺 Potting: Use a shallow pot with drainage holes. Terracotta or plastic both work. Repot every 2-3 years in spring when roots fill the pot.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate. Expect 10-15 cm of new growth per year. Can reach 60-90 cm in length at maturity over several years.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly in spring and summer with diluted cactus fertilizer at half strength. Skip fertilizing in fall and winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: Yes. Non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe to keep around curious pets.

WHERE TO PUT IT
This plant looks stunning in a hanging basket or on a high shelf where its trailing stems can cascade freely. It works well in living rooms, bedrooms, or bathrooms with good light. Bright corners near east or west-facing windows are perfect spots. Avoid placing it in dark hallways, directly under air vents, or near radiators, as dry heat and low light can stress the plant.