Care of the indoor plant Rhipsalis oblonga or Rhipsalis crispimarginata |
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The genus Rhipsalis, family Cactaceae, includes 35 species of cacti native to tropical regions of Central and South America, Africa and Asia. Some species are: Rhipsalis oblonga, Rhipsalis puniceodiscus, Rhipsalis cruciformis, Rhipsalis baccifera, Rhipsalis pachyptera, Rhipsalis cassutha, Rhipsalis pilocarpa, Rhipsalis burchellii, Rhipsalis rosea. Scientific synonym: Rhipsalis crispimarginata. This species is native to Brazil. They are epiphytic cacti with a hanging habit that reach 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in length. The stems are flat, bright green and look like leaves with a wavy margin. The areolas are located on the edges of the stems where small but showy white flowers appear. The fruits are pinkish white. This easy-to-grow plant is used in hanging pots as indoor and greenhouse plants. In summer Rhipsalis crispimarginata can be taken outside in a location protected from direct sun. Rhipsalis oblonga requires semi-shade exposure and temperatures above 5 ºC (41 ºF). The soil can be a commercial substrate for bromeliads or one for orchids. Water regularly with lime-free water, waiting for the substrate surface to dry. Rhipsalis oblonga needs a medium-high humidity; spray the plant periodically in summer with lime-free water. Fertilize once in mid-spring with cactus fertilizer. Pruning is not necessary. Rhipsalis crispimarginata is a quite resistant plant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to drought and poor ventilation. Rhipsalis oblonga is easily propagated by stem cuttings. |
Images of the indoor plant Rhipsalis oblonga or Rhipsalis crispimarginata |
 Rhipsalis oblonga  Rhipsalis oblonga |