Scientific Name
Lepismium houlletianum (Lem.) Barthlott
Common Name(s)
Snowdrop Cactus
Synonym(s)
Rhipsalis houlletiana, Hariota houlletiana, Acanthorhipsalis houlletiana, Nothorhipsalis houlletiana
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Rhipsalideae
Genus: Lepismium
Etymology
The specific epithet "houlletianum" (pronounced "hoo-let-ee-AH-num") honors discoverer M. Houlletia (1811-1890), French physician and botanist, who discovered this species and imported it from eastern Brazil.
Origin
Lepismium houlletianum is native to Brazil, Argentina, and possibly Bolivia. It grows as an epiphyte or lithophyte in subtropical or tropical moist forests.
Description
Lepismium houlletianum is a highly branched cactus with cylindrical primary stems and flattened secondary stem segments with serrated margins. The stems are green and can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 m) long.
The creamy-yellow, funnel-shaped flowers appear at the edges of the stems almost year-round. The spherical, translucent fruits are dark red or black and contain black seeds. They can reach a diameter of 0.4 inches (1 cm).
How to Grow and Care for Lepismium houlletianum
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Rhipsalis does not thrive in direct sunlight. Exposure to the afternoon sun can cause the leaves to burn, turn yellow, or develop spotting. However, they will not bloom without sufficient sunlight, and their growth can be stunted as a result. Therefore, these cacti do best with morning sun and full shade in the afternoon.
As Rhipsalis is commonly grown indoors, care must be given to the placement of the plants. They should be kept at least 20 inches (50 cm) from windows that receive midday or afternoon sun. The glass in the windows can multiply the heat from the sun's rays, causing sunburn on the leaves. Keep in mind that in its native environment, Rhipsalis is accustomed to receiving light filtered through dense, overhanging tree branches. Picturing this environment can help you adjust your lighting accordingly.
Rhipsalis is not a drought-resistant plant, so regular watering is essential. Overwatering, however, can cause weak stems and rotted roots. Using a watering can helps you measure the amount of water you are providing. The pot size compared to the plant size, the humidity levels in the home, and the type of potting soil used can all affect the watering frequency.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Rhipsalis.
Links
- Back to genus Lepismium
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
