About

Rhipsalis ( RIP-suh-lis) is a genus of epiphytic flowering plants in the cactus family, typically known as mistletoe cacti. They are found in parts of Central America, the Caribbean and northern regions of South America. One species, Rhipsalis baccifera also inhabits locations in Africa and Asia, and is the only cactus species naturally occurring in the Old World. This is the largest and most widely distributed genus of epiphytic cacti (those which live on other plants without damaging them).

The scientific name Rhipsalis derives from the Ancient Greek term for wickerwork, referring to the plants' many entangled or intertwined branches.

Where it grows

Rhipsalis is found as pendulous epiphyte in tropical rainforests, some species may also grow epilithic or, rarely, terrestrial. The genus is found widely in Central America, parts of the Caribbean and a great part of northern and central South America. The center of diversity of Rhipsalis lies in the rainforests of the Mata Atlantica in southeastern Brazil. It is found throughout the New World, and additionally in tropical Africa, Madagascar and Sri Lanka. It is the only cactus with a natural occurrence outside the New World.

Other Rhipsalis plants

Mistletoe cactus · Rhipsalis cereoides · Rhipsalis crispata · Rhipsalis elliptica · Rhipsalis floccosa · Rhipsalis hoelleri · Rhipsalis mesembryanthemoides · Rhipsalis oblonga · Rhipsalis pacheco-leonis · Chain Cactus · Rhipsalis pilocarpa · Rhipsalis russellii