Rhipsalis Cereuscula (Also known as Rice Cactus and Coral Cactus) is from the cactus family. But still, there are a lot of differences between Rhipsalis Cereuscula and other plants falling in this category. It is a good indoor plant.
It is majorly known as Rhipsalis Cereuscula
The spines that are coming out from its branches are very soft and feel good to touch. (Do not touch unnecessarily)
Rhipsalis Cereuscula Information
| Common Name | Rhipsalis cereuscula |
|---|---|
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Origin | Brazil |
| Growing Season | Spring and Summer |
| Fertilizer | Slow or controlled releasing |
| Propagation | Stem Cuttings |
| Light Requirements | Indirect sunlight |
| Watering | Allow soil to dry between waterings |
| Temperature | 15-25°C (59-77°F) |
| Soil | Well-draining cactus mix |
| Fertilization | Monthly during growing season |
How to grow Rhipsalis Cereuscula?
After getting the necessary information we can say that this is a kind of jungle cactus.
Our first step is to plant it right? We can plant it in a pot as well as in the ground.
Growing in a pot
It's a good choice to grow it in a pot. The reason is pretty simple:
- It's a cute plant and looks nice while growing it indoors.
- You have to get control over the direct sunlight. Thus it is recommended to plant it in a pot.
Instead of using soil, use potting mix (make it dry). Once you add potting mix in a pot with a good drainage system, plant the cutting stems or the plant that you have bought.
After planting, give a little water or water spray on the potting mix. Here I am recommending potting mix because it does not contain soil. Soil and water combination may cause root rot.
Do not keep the pot just beside the window as direct sunlight may burn the leaves. Place the pot in a shady location.
Watering
Once it's planted successfully, water once or twice a week. Keep in mind that being a cactus plant, it demands more water than other cactus plants.
Do not wait for the complete drying of the potting mix. Rhipsalis Cereuscula does not like dry soil or dry potting mix.
It can store water in the leaves, so it can also tolerate the dry soil. But it does not mean that it will be in its best condition with dry soil. So keep watering on a regular basis.
Sunlight
Avoid direct sunlight. Instead of that provide just enough light in a shady location.
Direct sunlight will leave dark spots on this plant's body.
Do not forget to place the pot outside your house or near your window in winter days. (But if the temperature is too low, keep it inside)
Fertilizer
I would like to recommend organic fertilizers such as compost because they will be good for the long-term. If you use chemical fertilizer, you will have to repot it more frequently.
I personally use slow-release fertilizers or controlled ones. Avoid liquid fertilizer if possible.
Propagation of Rhipsalis Cereuscula
Step 1: Select a healthy stem of Rice Cactus and cut it in such a way that it consists of more than 1 segment. Having multiple segments in the cuttings will increase the chance of getting healthy plants.
Step 2: Leave the cuttings to dry for 1 or 2 days.
Step 3: Plant the cuttings in a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Insert them about 1 inch into the soil, so they remain stable.
Step 4: Water the cuttings lightly. Place them in a bright, indirect light location. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the cuttings.
Why do we need to let cuttings dry?
This helps to prevent rotting when you plant them.
Can we grow Rhipsalis Cereuscula from seeds?
Yes, we can. But the propagation from seeds requires a lot more patience.
Once you get fresh Rhipsalis Cereuscula seeds from a reliable source, you can fill a shallow tray or pot with a well-draining cactus mix or a mix of perlite and peat moss.
Now it's time to sprinkle the seeds on the surface of the mixture that you have made.
Does Rhipsalis Cereuscula flower?
Yes, a healthy coral cactus blooms.
Take a look at the below picture:
