Key Facts
- A tropical epiphytic cactus often grown as a hanging houseplant
- Has thin trailing stems that form mats or cascades
- Produces small white to pink flowers followed by tiny berries
- Prefers bright indirect light and protection from hot midday sun
- Needs a fast draining, humus rich potting mix
- Is frost tender and kept indoors or in frost free locations
- Easily propagated by stem cuttings
- Water sparingly and allow the mix to dry slightly between waterings
Coral Cactus Rhipsalis cereuscula is a tropical epiphytic cactus prized as a hanging houseplant for thin trailing stems and small flowers, but it is frost tender so it is best kept indoors in cooler climates.
Identification
Thin cylindrical stems form mats or cascades that trail from pots or baskets. Plants produce small white to pink flowers that may be followed by tiny berries. In cultivation stems commonly trail about 6 to 24 inches but older plants can produce longer runners.
Best uses and where to grow
Use Coral Cactus in hanging baskets shelves and high planters where its trailing habit shows. It is an epiphytic species suited to bright sheltered spots and to indoor displays. USDA hardiness is roughly 10 to 11 so it is usually kept indoors or in a frost free greenhouse in cooler areas.
Light and location
Place in bright indirect light or a spot that receives morning sun. Protect stems from hot direct afternoon sun which can scorch them. Insufficient light reduces flowering and can lead to weak thin growth.
Soil and potting
Use a light free draining mix high in organic matter such as an epiphytic cactus or orchid type blend. Add bark peat or coir to improve aeration and moisture control. Avoid waterlogged soil which leads to root rot.
Watering
Water sparingly and allow the mix to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering causes soft wet stems and root rot while prolonged dryness makes stems shrivel and slow growth. Adjust frequency for temperature light and pot size.
Temperature and hardiness
Rhipsalis cereuscula is frost tender and performs best where temperatures stay above freezing. In warmer climates it can be grown outdoors year round where frost is absent. In colder areas keep the plant inside or in a heated greenhouse.
Flowering and feeding
Flowering typically occurs in the cooler season from late winter into spring in cultivation although timing varies by climate. Small meals of balanced fertilizer during the active growth season can support fuller growth and more flowers.
Propagation
Stem cuttings and division root readily and are the fastest way to make new plants. Allow cuttings to callus briefly then place in a moist free draining medium to root. Seeds will grow but take much longer to produce a trailing specimen.
After flowering and maintenance
Remove spent flowers and prune any leggy or damaged stems to keep a compact healthy shape. Repot into a slightly larger container when the mix breaks down or roots fill the pot.
Common problems
Poor drainage and overwatering are the main causes of decline leading to root rot. Sudden exposure to strong sun can scorch stems. Check for pests on new growth and treat promptly if found.
Frequently asked questions
- How fast does Coral Cactus grow?
- Growth rate varies with light temperature and feeding. In warm bright conditions plants produce noticeable new stems each season and can trail several inches to more than a foot per year.
- Is Coral Cactus suitable for hanging baskets?
- Yes its trailing habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets where stems can cascade freely.
- When does Coral Cactus bloom?
- Blooming often occurs in late winter into spring in cultivation but exact timing varies by local climate and light conditions.
- How should I water Coral Cactus?
- Water sparingly allow the potting mix to dry slightly between waterings and avoid letting the plant sit in water.
- How do I propagate Coral Cactus?
- Take stem cuttings allow them to callus then root in a free draining medium. Division of clumps also works well.
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