Rhipsalis,
(including Hatiora, Lepismium, Pfeiffera Schlumbergera)
Rhipsalis Care Video on YouTube http://youtu.be/ViivXKMRWgw
Rhipsalis, accented on the first syllable (Rhip) and
named from the Greek Rhips for wickerwork, is a genus of epiphytic,
mostly spineless cacti found throughout Central America, parts of the
Carribbean and a great part of northern and central South America. One
species, R. baccifera Miller, is found throughout the range
in the western hemisphere as well as parts of Africa, Madagascar, Sri
Lanka, India and Nepal. By far, the overwhelming majority of species come from South America. There are just under 40
species of Rhipsalis and most occur in Brazil. Rhipsalis are the only member of the Cactus
Family that are found naturally in the "Old World".
Rhipsalis and those related to them are primarily
epiphytic -meaning they live in trees, but some are lithophytic - that is, they grow in the cracks of rocks. This bulk of the species feature
cylindrical-pendant or stems that
branch frequently, however some are flattened or have angled stems. Spines are
mostly absent when present or are very fine and hair-like.
Care
These succulents
require little care. All they need is some water once or twice a week and a
little diluted fertilizer once a month Spring through Fall. They can be kept at
any location in the home. Your Rhipsalis can also spend the summer months on
your patio or balcony. They cannot tolerate frost. If placed in the direct sun,
however, they will require a bit more water and may burn if not properly
introduced to hot sun. The ideal temperature is 60-80 degrees F, but 10 degrees
higher or lower will make little difference.
If the plants receive
good care, they can live for a long time and also become fairly large. Clipping
them back to keep them in shape will not harm them at all.
They are not suitable
for consumption and are intended only for decoration.
Sources:
Rhipsalis capilliformus
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