Rhipsalis elliptica
| Light | Bright, filtered light to light shade; no harsh direct midday sun. Brighter light brings out the red flush |
|---|---|
| Water | Regularly through the growing season, letting the top of the mix dry between waterings; ease off in winter but never bake it fully dry |
| Soil | Open, humus-rich epiphyte mix — orchid bark, coir and perlite (see Soil and potting mix) |
| Temperature | Warm and frost-free; happiest above about 10 °C, USDA zones 10–11 |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings (very easy); also seed |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to cats and dogs |
Rhipsalis elliptica is a flat-stemmed, epiphytic cactus from the humid forests of southern and southeastern Brazil, forming long, branching chains of broad, elliptical segments. Grown mostly as a trailing houseplant, its leaf-like joints are soft green in shade but often flush with rich red or purplish margins when given brighter light. Like the rest of the genus Rhipsalis, it is a jungle cactus rather than a desert one, and its whole character reflects a life spent perched on tree branches rather than baking in the sun.
Description
Rhipsalis elliptica produces flattened, leaf-like stem segments that are broadly elliptical to oval, with gently scalloped or notched edges. New growth branches from the tips and margins of older segments, so a mature plant hangs in long, much-jointed chains that can reach well over a metre from a basket. The segments are thin and slightly leathery, mid-green in shade and taking on red to purplish tones along the edges in strong light.
Small flowers appear along the notches at the segment margins — modest, yellowish, and easy to overlook. They are followed by little rounded berries, typically reddish, in the manner typical of the genus. As an epiphyte, the plant carries no true spines.
Distribution and habitat
The species is native to the Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlântica) of southern and southeastern Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte on tree trunks and branches, and sometimes on shaded rock. This is a warm, humid, shaded environment — the plant is adapted to dappled forest light, high humidity and moisture that drains away quickly from its perch rather than lingering around the roots.
Cultivation
Rhipsalis elliptica is one of the more forgiving jungle cacti and makes an excellent hanging-basket plant. Grow it in an open, humus-rich epiphyte mix that holds a little moisture but drains freely, and site it in bright, filtered light or light shade — never harsh direct midday sun, which scorches the flat segments. A spot with morning sun or dappled light brings out the best red colouring without burning.
Unlike desert cacti, it likes to be watered fairly regularly through the growing season; let the top of the mix dry between waterings, but avoid letting the whole rootball dry out completely for long stretches. It appreciates humidity and warmth, and dislikes cold, wet conditions. Ease back on watering in winter, keep it frost-free, and feed lightly during active growth. See Watering and Repotting for general technique.
Propagation
Propagation is very easy from stem cuttings. Detach a segment or short chain of segments, let the cut end callus for a day or two, then insert it into a moist, airy mix; cuttings root readily in warmth and humidity. The species can also be raised from seed, though cuttings are faster and keep the plant true. See Propagation — cuttings for a full walkthrough.
Common problems
- Rot — the main risk, from a heavy, waterlogged mix or cold, wet winter conditions; segments soften and blacken.
- Scorch — too much direct sun bleaches or browns the flat segments; move to brighter shade.
- Segment drop — sudden shifts in watering, cold draughts or extreme dryness can cause segments to shrivel or detach.
- Pests — mealybugs (white fluff in the joints) and scale are the usual offenders on jungle cacti.
See also
- Rhipsalis — the genus overview
- Propagation — cuttings · Soil and potting mix · Watering · Repotting · Pests and diseases