Scientific Name
Rhipsalis neves-armondii K.Schum.
Synonym(s)
Lepismium neves-armondii
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Rhipsalideae
Genus: Rhipsalis
Etymology
The specific epithet "neves-armondii" (pronounced "NEH-vez ar-MON-dee-eye") honors Amaro Ferreira das Neves-Armond (1854-1944), a Brazilian botanist who served as a director of the National Museum of Brazil.
Origin
Rhipsalis neves-armondii is native to Brazil. It grows as an epiphyte or epilith in the Atlantic Forest at elevations of up to 3,280 feet (1,000 m).
Description
Rhipsalis rhombea is a highly branched cactus with pendent stems that grow in segments and branch in whorls of 3 to 10, forming large clusters over time. The stems can grow up to 6.6 feet (2 m) long or sometimes more. The branches are deep green, naked, perfectly cylindrical, usually about 4 inches (10 cm) long and 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) in diameter. The woolly areoles are visible only after flowering.
The flowers are white to cream-colored, widely spreading, and can reach a diameter of 0.8 inches (2 cm). They appear from the hidden terminal areoles in late winter and early spring. The fruits are red, globose, and contain tiny brown seeds. They can grow up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) in diameter.
How to Grow and Care for Rhipsalis neves-armondii
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 cause spotting. However, they will not bloom without sufficient sunlight, and their growth can be stunted. Therefore, these cacti do best with morning sun and full shade in the afternoon.
Because Rhipsalis is commonly grown indoors, care must be taken with 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 reflect the sun's heat, 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. A watering can helps you measure how much water you are providing. The pot size relative to the plant, the home's humidity, and the type of potting soil 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
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
