Mistletoe cactus care: watering, light and repotting
Also called rhipsalis, coral cactus · Rhipsalis baccifera · Cactaceae family
12 d in winter
How often to water the mistletoe cactus?
Allow about 7 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 12 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
A rainforest cactus: it wants indirect light and more water than a desert cactus.
Misting every 7 days helps keep the air humid around its leaves, especially in winter when central heating dries the house out.
What light does it need?
The mistletoe cactus likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 3 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 30 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: Trailing stems 1.5–3 ft (50 cm–1 m).
Safe for cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA.
Common problems
Wrinkled stems
Cause: Thirst. What to do: Water, then keep the soil slightly moist.
Reddish stems
Cause: Direct sun. What to do: Move it away from the glass.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the mistletoe cactus?
About every 7 days in spring and summer, and every 12 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the mistletoe cactus?
The mistletoe cactus likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the mistletoe cactus?
Yes, misting every 7 days does it good, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Use soft, room-temperature water.
When should you repot the mistletoe cactus?
Every 3 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the mistletoe cactus safe?
The mistletoe cactus is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. A pet that eats a lot of it may still vomit, so it's best not to let it nibble.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the mistletoe cactus forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.