Scientific Name
Rhipsalis oblonga Loefgr.
Synonym(s)
Rhipsalis crispimarginata
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Rhipsalideae
Genus: Rhipsalis
Etymology
The specific epithet "oblonga" (pronounced "ob-LON-guh") means "somewhat long, oblong" and refers to the shape of the branches of this species.
Origin
Rhipsalis oblonga is endemic to Brazil. It occurs in Rio de Janeiro and northern São Paulo, where it grows as an epiphyte in coastal or montane forests.
Description
Rhipsalis oblonga is a shrubby cactus with segmented, semi-erect to pendent stems that range in color from olive green to light green. I can grow up to 8.2 feet (2.5 m) long, branching apically or laterally. The main stems are cylindrical at the base, becoming flattened above, and can reach a diameter of 0.4 inches (2 cm). The stem segments have serrated margins and large areoles and can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) long and 2.4 inches (6 cm) wide.
The solitary, yellowish-white flowers appear along the sides of the branches at the areoles from spring to fall. At maturity, the fruits are greenish translucent to nearly white, spherical, and can reach up to 0.3 inches (0.7 cm) in diameter.
How to Grow and Care for Rhipsalis oblonga
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 taken with plant placement. 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 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 pot's size relative to the plant, the home's humidity levels, and the type of potting soil used can all affect watering frequency.
Learn 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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