Mistletoe cactus Plant Care

Mistletoe cactus (Loranthella deflersii) belongs to the Loranthaceae family within the Loranthella genus. Mistletoe cactus is native to deserts and dry shrublands of the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa. Mistletoe cactus is also known as Desert mistletoe.

Mistletoe cactus displays a parasitic shrub growth habit, reaching up to 1 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1 ft. Mistletoe cactus produces small, inconspicuous flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Mistletoe cactus every 14–21 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Mistletoe cactus thrives in partial to full shade. Avoid placing Mistletoe cactus in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Loranthella deflersii tolerates temperatures of 60–80°F. Mistletoe cactus prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Well-draining soil mix with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Mistletoe cactus to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Mistletoe cactus every 2 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with partial to full shade and well-draining soil mix with high organic content. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Mistletoe cactus is suited to USDA Zone 10b – 12b.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Mistletoe cactus can spread to about 1 ft (0.3 m) and reach about 1 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 1 ft (0.3 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Mistletoe cactus while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Mistletoe cactus is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 10). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Mistletoe cactus can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Mistletoe cactus is susceptible to aphids, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Mistletoe cactus grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10b – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10b. Mistletoe cactus is native to deserts and dry shrublands of the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa. In cooler regions, grow Mistletoe cactus as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.