Rhipsalis baccifera ‘Oasis’, commonly known as the Mistletoe Cactus, is an easy-going trailing forest cactus with masses of slender, branching green stems. Its soft, cascading growth looks fantastic spilling from a hanging pot or high shelf, and its tropical origins mean it enjoys slightly different conditions from the desert cacti you might be more familiar with.
Scientific Name
Rhipsalis baccifera ‘Oasis’
Common Name(s)
Mistletoe Cactus, Rhipsalis ‘Oasis’
Origin
The species has a widespread tropical distribution, occurring naturally in parts of Central and South America, the Caribbean and Africa, where it grows primarily as an epiphyte on trees in warm, humid forests.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate slightly lower light levels. Some gentle morning or evening sunlight is fine, but avoid prolonged strong midday sun, which can scorch the stems.
Water
Water when the top few centimetres of soil have dried, then water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away. As a forest cactus, it prefers more consistent moisture than a typical desert cactus, but should never be left sitting in soggy soil. Reduce watering during winter when growth slows.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity and appreciates more humid conditions than desert cacti. Average household humidity is usually suitable, although it will enjoy a brighter bathroom or kitchen.
Soil
Use a loose, well-draining growing medium that also retains a little moisture. A cactus and succulent compost mixed with orchid bark and perlite works well.
Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant or cactus fertiliser diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding during autumn and winter.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 18–27°C. Protect from cold draughts and avoid prolonged temperatures below 10°C.
Pet-safe
Rhipsalis species are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Sprouts Top Tips
Don’t treat your Mistletoe Cactus like a desert cactus! Allow the top of the soil to dry between waterings, but avoid leaving it completely dry for long periods. Display it in a hanging pot or on a high shelf to make the most of its cascading stems.
Extras
Mature plants can produce tiny pale flowers along their stems, followed by small, round, mistletoe-like berries. Its branching stems can become increasingly full and cascading as the plant matures.
Did You Know?
Rhipsalis baccifera is particularly unusual among cacti because it naturally occurs outside the Americas. It is the only cactus species known to have a natural distribution in the Old World, including parts of tropical Africa and islands of the Indian Ocean.
