Rhipsalis monacantha

Water:

April-September: 1 x every 2 weeks*

October-March: 1x per month *

*This is only for a sunny location

Light: sunny

Nutrition: 1x per month (May-September)

Rhipsalis monacantha is a unique hanging cactus from South America with flattened shoots, dark spines, and striking orange flowers and decorative berries. Despite its beautiful appearance with its many bright orange flowers, this is a cactus you rarely encounter.

Rhipsalis monacantha is a rare and elegant cactus native to northwestern Argentina and southeastern Bolivia. In its natural habitat, this species grows as an epiphyte or lithophyte, often on trees or rocks in mountainous areas up to about 2000 meters in altitude. This growth habit gives the plant a completely different appearance than most desert cacti.

The plant grows slowly and forms bushy clumps with flattened to triangular shoots. The shoots have wavy, slightly toothed edges and can eventually hang gracefully downwards. Initially, they grow upright, but as they lengthen, they develop a pendulous form. On the ribs are small felted areoles with a few bristles and one to several sturdy, dark spines. These spines give the plant a tough accent, which is quite unusual for a Rhipsalis.

During the growing season, small, waxy flowers appear, growing solitarily from the areoles. They have a warm orange color and stand out beautifully against the fresh green of the shoots. After flowering, round, semi-translucent berries develop in soft shades of orange to light pink. These fruits often remain on the plant for months, adding extra ornamental value.

Rhipsalis monacantha is an ideal plant for hanging baskets or raised bowls and thrives best in a bright spot without direct intense sun. Due to its unique growth, flowers, and long-lasting decorative fruits, this is a highly beloved species among enthusiasts of epiphytic cacti.

Other names by which you may encounter this plant include: Pfeiffera monacantha, Acanthorhipsalis monacantha, Hariota monacantha, and Lepismium monacanthum.