Rhipsalis Pilocarpa

If you’re looking for a hanging plant that’s both elegant and easy-going, let me introduce you to the rhipsalis pilocarpa. This exotic hanging cactus plant is a true gem for indoor gardeners, offering a beautiful cascade of slender, hairy stems without the demanding care of many other succulents.

Often called the hairy-fruited wickerware cactus, it brings a soft, jungle-like feel to your space. Its stems are covered in fine, white hairs and it produces delicate, fragrant white flowers followed by cute purple berries. It’s a conversation starter that thrives on neglect.

This plant belongs to the Rhipsalis genus, which is unique as it’s the only cactus group found naturally outside the Americas. Rhipsalis pilocarpa is native to the rainforests of Brazil. Unlike desert cacti, it grows as an epiphyte, meaning it lives on trees in dappled light.

This origin story is the key to its care. It doesn’t want blazing sun or bone-dry soil. Instead, it prefers conditions that mimic its jungle home: bright, indirect light and consistent but careful watering.

Why You Should Grow This Plant

There are several great reasons to add this cactus to your collection. First, its growth habit is gorgeous. The stems can eventually trail several feet long, making it perfect for a high shelf or hanging basket.

Second, it’s remarkably low-maintenance once you understand its needs. It’s also non-toxic, which is a bonus for homes with curious pets. Finally, when it blooms, the small white flowers have a sweet scent and are followed by ornamental berries, giving you multiple seasons of interest.

Perfect Light and Location

Getting the light right is the most important step. Think of the filtered light under a forest canopy.

Place it near an east or north-facing window where it gets gentle morning light or bright ambient light all day.
A spot a few feet back from a south or west window, shielded by a sheer curtain, also works well.
Direct afternoon sun will scorch the stems, causing them to turn a reddish or yellow color.
If your light is low, growth will be slower and leggy, but the plant can often still survive.

Watering Your Hanging Cactus Correctly

This is where most people go wrong. Because it’s a cactus, they assume it needs desert-like drought. But remember, it’s a jungle cactus.

Water thoroughly when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry to the touch. Let water run freely from the drainage holes. Then, let it drain completely—never let the pot sit in a saucer of water.

In the warmer growing season (spring and summer), this might be once a week. In fall and winter, reduce watering significantly, maybe only every 2-3 weeks. The stems will feel slightly less firm when thirsty, which is a good indicator.

Soil and Potting Needs

The right soil ensures your watering routine succeeds. You need a mix that holds some moisture but drains exceptionally fast to prevent root rot.

Use a commercial cactus or succulent mix as a base.
To improve it, add extra perlite, orchid bark, or pumice. A good ratio is 2 parts potting mix to 1 part drainage material.
Always choose a pot with a drainage hole. Terracotta pots are excellent because they allow the soil to dry more evenly.
Repot every 2-3 years in spring, moving up just one pot size.

Feeding for Healthy Growth

Rhipsalis pilocarpa isn’t a heavy feeder, but it appreciates nutrients during its active growth. From early spring to late summer, feed it once a month with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Dilute it to half the strength recommended on the bottle.

A fertilizer formulated for orchids or cacti works perfectly. Stop feeding completely in the autumn and winter when the plant is resting. Over-fertilizing can damage the delicate roots and cause weak growth.

Temperature and Humidity Preferences

This plant enjoys average room temperatures that are comfortable for you, ideally between 60°F and 80°F. It can tolerate occasional dips down to 50°F but should be protected from frost and cold drafts from windows or doors.

As for humidity, average home humidity (around 40-50%) is usually fine. However, it will truly thrive with a bit more. If your air is very dry, you can mist the plant occasionally, but a better solution is to place it on a pebble tray with water or group it with other plants to create a humid microclimate.

Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning is simple and mostly for aesthetics. You can trim back any stems that have become too long or leggy to encourage a bushier shape. Simply snip the stem at a joint using clean, sharp scissors.

You can also remove any stems that are damaged or yellowing. The best time to do any major pruning is in the spring. Don’t forget to occasionally dust the stems with a soft brush to keep the hairs looking their best and allow for efficient photosynthesis.

How to Propagate New Plants

Sharing this plant with friends is easy. Propagation by stem cuttings has a high success rate. Here’s how to do it:

In spring or summer, select a healthy stem that is at least a few inches long.
Using a clean knife or shears, cut the stem at a joint.
Let the cutting sit in a dry, airy place for a day or two until the cut end forms a callus.
Plant the callused end in a small pot filled with the same fast-draining soil mix you use for the mother plant.
Water lightly and place in bright, indirect light. Keep the soil barely moist. Roots should develop in a few weeks.

Common Problems and Simple Solutions

Even with good care, you might encounter an issue. Here’s what to look for.

Red or Yellow Stems: Usually a sign of too much direct sunlight. Move the plant to a shadier spot.
Stems Wrinkling or Shriveling: This is often underwatering. Give the plant a thorough drink.
Stems Turning Mushy or Black at Base: Classic sign of overwatering and root rot. You may need to cut away the rot, let the plant dry, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Lack of Flowers or Berries: Often due to insufficient light or lack of a winter rest period with cooler temps and less water.
Pests: Mealybugs can sometimes appear in the crevices. Wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

FAQ About Rhipsalis Pilocarpa

Is the hairy stemmed rhipsalis safe for cats?
Yes, it is considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs, making it a pet-friendly choice.

How fast does the hairy-fruited wickerware cactus grow?
It has a moderate growth rate. Under ideal conditions, you can expect several inches of new growth per season, with stems eventually reaching several feet in length over years.

Why is my rhipsalis dropping stems?
Sudden stem drop is usually a stress response. Check for drastic temperature changes, a cold draft, or severe overwatering. Sometimes it’s just a natural shedding of older stems.

Can I put my hanging cactus outside in summer?
Yes, but you must be careful. Acclimate it slowly to outdoor conditions over a week or two. Place it in a completely shaded, sheltered spot, like under a dense tree. Never put it in direct sun, and remember to bring it back inside before nighttime temperatures drop below 50°F.

How often does the exotic hanging cactus bloom?
Mature plants typically bloom in late winter or early spring. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, often followed by attractive purple, berry-like fruits if pollinated.

Final Tips for Success

Caring for rhipsalis pilocarpa is about understanding its rainforest roots. Forget the desert; think humid, dappled-light jungle. The biggest mistake is treating it like a typical sun-loving cactus.

With the right light, careful watering, and a well-draining home, this plant will reward you with years of beautiful, trailing growth. It’s a wonderful choice for adding texture and a touch of the exotic to your indoor garden without requiring constant attention. Just give it a stable environment and it will quietly thrive, bringing a peice of the Brazilian canopy into your home.