Mistletoe Cactus
Best trailing houseplant for pet owners seeking low-maintenance greenery.
Discover the Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera), a unique epiphytic plant with cascading, thread-like stems that bring a touch of the tropics indoors. Also known as the Spaghetti Cactus, it thrives in bright, indirect light and high humidity, making it ideal for hanging baskets or high shelves. This resilient plant is non-toxic and pet-friendly, offering a safe and beautiful addition to your home. Its seasonal white berries resemble mistletoe, adding festive charm. Easy to care for, it requires minimal watering and well-draining soil, making it a perfect choice for plant enthusiasts of all levels.
$43.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
141
/ 9457
#141 in Potted Houseplants
Price vs Category Average
-18%
Below average
Scientific Name
Rhipsalis baccifera
/ Rhipsalis baccifera
Who it's for
- Interior decorators seeking dramatic vertical greenery for high shelves
- Apartment dwellers with limited natural light access
- Pet owners prioritizing safe, non-toxic indoor greenery
Who should skip it
- Impatient decorators wanting an instant, full-length trailing display
- Casual plant parents who dislike frequent pest monitoring
- Busy gardeners who prefer low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants
Performance breakdown
Pet Safety
Non-toxic foliage provides total peace of mind for curious household pets.
Visual Impact
Cascading thread-like stems create a striking, modern silhouette in any room.
Maintenance Ease
Low watering requirements make this an ideal choice for busy owners.
Styling Versatility
Perfect for hanging baskets or high shelves to maximize vertical space.
Environmental Adaptability
Thrives in high humidity but requires specific bright, filtered light conditions.
Growth Potential
Steady trailing habit rewards patient owners with lush, festive seasonal berries.
Key Specs
Scientific Name
Rhipsalis baccifera
Native Habitat
Tropical areas of South America, Africa, and Madagascar
USDA Hardiness Zones
9-11 (Indoor use recommended)
Light Requirement
Bright, filtered light
Temperature Range
50°F to 80°F
Repotting Interval
Approximately every 3 years in spring
Soil Type
Well-draining succulent/cacti mix
Care Level
Easy
Features
- Unique trailing, thread-like foliage
- Produces mistletoe-like white berries
- Non-toxic and safe for pets
- Adapts well to high humidity
- Ideal for hanging baskets
- Easy to propagate
- Air purifying qualities
- Festive holiday decor potential
What customers say
Customers are consistently thrilled with the Mistletoe Cactus, often highlighting its unique, whimsical design which adds immediate character to their indoor spaces. A major point of praise is the exceptional quality of the plant upon arrival. Livelyroot's meticulous packaging ensures the delicate trailing stems are protected, leading to high satisfaction regarding plant health and vitality. Consumers feel confident purchasing this specific plant online due to the reliable shipping process, making the overall experience seamless and enjoyable.
Know before you buy
No, it is an epiphytic cactus native to tropical rainforests. Unlike desert cacti that prefer direct sun and dry conditions, this plant thrives in bright, filtered light and higher humidity.
Yes, the Mistletoe Cactus is non-toxic and pet-friendly. It is a great choice for households with curious pets who might be tempted to nibble on trailing foliage.
This plant prefers a consistent moisture level but should never sit in soggy soil. Water when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry, ensuring you use a well-draining succulent mix to prevent root rot.
Yes, under the right conditions, it can produce small, white, mistletoe-like berries. These add a festive, decorative touch to the plant, especially during the holiday season.
Because of its cascading, thread-like stems, it is best displayed in a hanging basket or on a high shelf. This allows the foliage to trail naturally and receive the bright, filtered light it needs to grow.
The Mistletoe Cactus is relatively slow-growing and only needs to be repotted about every three years. Spring is the ideal time to refresh the soil and move it to a slightly larger container if necessary.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$43