Scientific Name
Rhipsalis campos-portoana Loefgr.
Synonym(s)
Erythrorhipsalis campos-portoana
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Rhipsalideae
Genus: Rhipsalis
Etymology
The specific epithet "campos-portoana" (pronounced "KAHM-pos por-toh-AH-na") honors Paulo de Campos Porto🡕 (1889-1968), a prominent Brazilian botanist who played a central role in the administration of Brazil's scientific institutions in the first half of the 20th century.
Origin
Rhipsalis campos-portoana is native to southern and southeastern Brazil. It grows as an epiphyte in Atlantic and cloud forests at elevations of up to 7,550 feet (2,300 m).
Description
Rhipsalis campos-portoana is a much-branched cactus with long, light green, usually dichotomously branched stems that hang in large clusters. The primary branches are long, slender, and cylindrical, while the terminal branches are somewhat club-shaped, measuring up to 2 inches (5 cm) long, all with a few naked areoles.
The bell-shaped flowers are white, usually terminal, with about eight slightly spreading petals up to 0..35 inches (0.9 cm) long. The fruits are red, globose to ovoid, and can reach a diameter of 0.15 inches (0.4 cm).
How to Grow and Care for Rhipsalis campos-portoana
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Rhipsalis do not thrive in direct sunlight. Exposure to the afternoon sun can burn the leaves, turn them yellow, or lead to spotting. However, they will not bloom without sufficient sunlight, and their growth can be stunted. Therefore, these cacti do best with morning sun and afternoon shade.
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) away from windows that receive midday or afternoon sun. The glass in the windows can multiply the heat from the sun's rays, causing sunburned 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 drought-resistant, so regular watering is essential. Overwatering, however, can cause weak stems and rotted roots. Using a watering can helps you measure how much water you are providing. The size of the pot relative to the plant, the humidity levels in the home, and the type of potting soil used can all affect watering frequency.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Rhipsalis.
Links
- Back to genus Rhipsalis
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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