Mistletoe Cactus Plant Care

Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera) belongs to the Cactaceae family within the Rhipsalis genus. Mistletoe Cactus is native to Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Florida. Mistletoe Cactus is also known as Coral Cactus, Jungle Cactus, Chain Cactus.

Mistletoe Cactus displays a trailing, epiphytic growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1 ft. Mistletoe Cactus produces small white or yellow blooms.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Rhipsalis baccifera requires watering every 14–21 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Mistletoe Cactus thrives in bright indirect to low light. Avoid placing Mistletoe Cactus in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Rhipsalis baccifera grows best at temperatures of 60–80°F. Mistletoe Cactus prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Well-draining cactus mix with added organic matter like peat moss or coconut coir. Good drainage is essential for Mistletoe Cactus to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Mistletoe Cactus every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

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

Repot every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Mistletoe Cactus can be propagated through stem cuttings, offsets. Similar propagation techniques also apply to chain cactus plant care, which shares the same genus.

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

Mistletoe Cactus is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs. 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 Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Florida. In cooler regions, grow Mistletoe Cactus as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.