Rhipsalis pilocarpa, commonly known as the Mouse Tail Cactus, is an unusual trailing cactus with slender, branching stems covered in fine, soft hairs. Unlike the desert cacti you might be familiar with, Rhipsalis naturally grows in tropical forests, making it a fantastic choice for hanging pots and shelves where its cascading stems can be shown off.
Scientific Name
Rhipsalis pilocarpa
Common Name(s)
Mouse Tail Cactus, Hairy Stemmed Rhipsalis
Origin
Native to Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees in warm, humid tropical and subtropical forests.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some gentle morning or evening sunlight, but avoid prolonged strong midday sun, which can scorch the stems.
Water
Water when the top few centimetres of soil have dried, then allow excess water to drain away. Unlike desert cacti, Rhipsalis prefers slightly more consistent moisture and should not be left completely dry for long periods. Reduce watering during winter when growth slows.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity and generally appreciates more humid conditions than desert cacti. Average household humidity is usually suitable, but keep away from radiators and very dry air.
Soil
Use a loose, well-draining growing medium. A cactus and succulent compost mixed with orchid bark and perlite works well, providing both drainage and airflow around the roots.
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
Remember that this isn’t a typical desert cactus! Give your Mouse Tail Cactus bright, indirect light and don’t allow it to remain bone dry for extended periods. A hanging pot or high shelf will give its trailing stems plenty of room to grow.
Extras
Mature plants can produce small white flowers along the stems, which may be followed by small berry-like fruits. Its naturally cascading growth makes it particularly suited to hanging displays.
Did You Know?
While we usually associate cacti with dry deserts, Rhipsalis pilocarpa is an epiphytic forest cactus. In the wild, it grows on trees rather than in the ground, using its host for support without taking nutrients from it.
