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Add to My Garden Coral cactus
Rhipsalis cereuscula
Also known as: Mistletoe Cactus
Coral cactus (Rhipsalis cereuscula) is a shrubby, trailing cactus that grows on the surface of other plants in the wild. Coral cactus originates in Uruguay and Brazil. This species is often cultivated for ornamental purposes. In cultivation, the coral cactus should not be left to dry out or exposed to bright sunlight.
Hardiness Zones
10 to 11
More Info
Plant Type
Herb
Bloom Time
Spring, Late fall, Winter
Leaf Color
Green
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Vascular plants Class
Dicotyledons Order
Pinks, cacti, and allies Family
Cactuses Genus
Mistletoe cacti Species
Coral cactus 
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Distribution Map
Habitat
Lowland to submontane tropical moist forest
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
Questions About Coral cactus
Watering 
Temperature What is the best way to water my Coral cactus?
It's important to know various ways to water the Coral cactus. Some might ask whether they should do the watering from top to bottom, or is it the opposite? According to the experts, one of the best ways to water the cactus is to start from the bottom. This will ensure that there will be enough water to reach the root of the plants.
If you're starting from the top, there will not be enough saturation. The water will trickle and evaporate, and only a small amount will reach its roots.
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What should I do if my Coral cactus is underwatered?
Sometimes, you might notice that even if you water it frequently enough, it will start to dry out. When you see that the flowers are beginning to wilt and there's not enough water, the issue might be in the container where they are planted. Choose a bigger one if this is the case. Buy a pot that drains easily. You will need to mix it with the right potting soil and clean sand so it will absorb more water easier.
The soil that is too wet will not go well with the roots. Since this species is an epiphyte, it won't be able to handle soggy roots since it absorbs water and nutrients from the air. It's best to ensure that there's proper drainage to prevent fungal infections.
When you notice the cactus is limp, you can transfer or re-pot it into fresh earth. Gently remove the soil as much as possible and keep it evenly moist. Mist the cactus frequently whenever possible.
After the flowers have finished blooming, you might want to cut back on watering until you see new buds appearing. When the soil dries too much, the buds will begin to drop, so you might want to add some water but not too much.
Sometimes, underwatering, which is followed by overwatering that many owners do for compensation, is quite common. These cacti are considered to be succulents. The lack of water is not noticeable until everything is too late. They show that there are issues when they begin to droop and wither. The well-intentioned plant owner will give them massive amounts of water.
This is where the roots become desiccated. They become so dry that they can't take in any excess water. It will result in waterlogged plants, and the remaining roots may rot. If you notice some signs of wilting or underwatering, you can try to bring the species back to life with regular and frequent watering. However, make sure that it won't be a deluge, so you'll give the cactus a chance to regenerate and recover its roots.
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How much water should I give my Coral cactus?
The Coral cactus must be properly watered to keep it healthy all year round. It should be potted in well-draining soil so it would produce beautiful blooms.
The amount of water that the Coral cactus needs can vary. When you see that about 1/3 of the topsoil is dry, this is the best time to water them. They are thirstier than the other succulents, so watering should take place about 1x every week. Use your fingers to check if the soil is about two inches dry.
If you notice that the soil is very dry on the top layer, run the water until it goes through the drainage of the pots. There should be a tray underneath to catch the extra water. After about 10 to 15 minutes, discard everything, including the excess water. The soaking method should work well with the Coral cactus but don't let it sit on the water-filled pot for a long time. When the species is in its flowering stage, it's highly recommended to water it sparingly.
Ideally, the best time to water them is when you notice that the leaves begin to droop. Make sure to fill the saucer of the pots with pebbles. Add water to the pebbles to add humidity to your Coral cactus.
The best way to understand whether it's time to water the Coral cactus is to check the soil. When it's too dry, simply add water and moisture. However, don't let the pot sit in the water, especially during the winter when the soil takes a long time to dry. This can cause root rot.
Know that these species can react to various seasonal changes. Watering it the correct way will mean that you should consider the climate. If you live in a dry and hot climate, the plants will need more watering, which is about twice per week.
If you live in a humid area, then watering only 1x a week can work well. You should water this less frequently in the fall and winter if you want the flowers to bloom. When the pots are exposed to too much sunlight, then the moisture will dry out faster. This is when the plant needs more watering. Watering should be less if it is in a cool or humid place.
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What will happen if I overwater my Coral cactus?
Sometimes, you might overwater your Coral cactus, which makes it look limp or wilted. When you've neglected it for too long, give it a little drink. Continue to provide it with water in a sparing way until you see that there's slight moisture in the soil.
Overwatering can cause the development of a fungal infection called white rot. The leaves tend to droop, which might result in wilting. Like any other species, the cactus can't stand overwatering or underwatering. They don't tolerate dry soil since the flowers will start dropping at the same time, and this is something that you don't want to happen.
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Should I adjust the frequency of watering my Coral cactus according to different seasons?
The cold months and the hot months are not the same. The temperatures tend to drop during the winter and fall, and the soil will take longer to dry. This is when you don't need to water the succulents often. These two seasons are also the best time for the Coral cactus to show its beautiful blooms. Water sparingly to maintain the health of the plant.
During the months of October, stop watering when there's too much water in the soil. Resume the care in November but keep the moisture light when the temperatures are still cool. When the blooms start to appear, stop watering for about a few weeks so the plants can rest from too much moisture. These are very delicate, so when you see new growth, you can resume the watering once a week if you need to.
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Should I water my Coral cactus differently when I plant it indoors vs outdoors?
Your plant's location is something you need to consider when it comes to its watering needs. When the plant grows near the window or outdoors, the air might be too dry, and the temperatures are too high. This is where you should water the plant for about 2x a week.
When it's growing indoors in a humid and cool environment, it will definitely need less watering. Indirect sunlight will also have an impact since the soil does not tend to dry out faster. This is where the succulent will just be fine with once-a-week watering. However, you still need to check the soil with a moisture meter to know what it needs.
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Water
Every 2 weeks
Originating from rainforests, Coral cactus prefers high humidity. It grows on other trees, and its primary way of getting moisture is through the rain and air. However, it doesn’t tolerate drought, and it should be watered immediately once you notice that the soil is very dry.Always use a well-draining mix to avoid root rot.
Learn More 
Lighting
Partial sun
Temperature
10 to 35 ℃
Coral cactus originates from tropical regions, where the climate is typically warm and humid. As a result, it is well-adapted to high temperatures and humidity. It doesn't appreciate sudden temperature changes and prefers a stable temperature environment, so it's important to avoid temperature fluctuations indoors. It usually doesn't tolerate cold temperatures and requires higher temperatures for growth. If the environmental temperature drops too low, the plant may cease growth or even die.
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About
More Info
Distribution
Care FAQ
More About How-Tos
Related Plants
Related Articles
Add to My Garden Coral cactus
Rhipsalis cereuscula
Also known as: Mistletoe Cactus
Coral cactus (Rhipsalis cereuscula) is a shrubby, trailing cactus that grows on the surface of other plants in the wild. Coral cactus originates in Uruguay and Brazil. This species is often cultivated for ornamental purposes. In cultivation, the coral cactus should not be left to dry out or exposed to bright sunlight.
Hardiness Zones
10 to 11
More Info
Plant Type
Herb
Bloom Time
Spring, Late fall, Winter
Leaf Color
Green
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Vascular plants Class
Dicotyledons Order
Pinks, cacti, and allies Family
Cactuses Genus
Mistletoe cacti Species
Coral cactus 
Find your perfect green friends.
Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.
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Distribution Map
Habitat
Lowland to submontane tropical moist forest
Map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
Questions About Coral cactus
Watering Temperature What is the best way to water my Coral cactus?
What should I do if my Coral cactus is underwatered?
How much water should I give my Coral cactus?
What will happen if I overwater my Coral cactus?
Should I adjust the frequency of watering my Coral cactus according to different seasons?
Show More ![more]()
Get tips and tricks for your plants.
Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.
Download the App
More Questions People Also Ask
More About How-Tos
Related Plants
Related Articles
Best Perennial Plant to Grow
# Useful Tips
Suggested Plants to Build a Garden That Blooms All the Year Round
# Useful Tips
Best Perennial Plant to Grow
# Useful Tips
Most Common Succulent
# Useful Tips
Suggested Plants to Build a Garden That Blooms All the Year Round
# Useful Tips
Discover more articles?
Read More 
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify, grow, and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Sign in/sign up
Continue reading in our app - it's better
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unlimited guides at your fingertips...
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Water
Indoor
Indoor
Outdoor potted
In the ground
Choose a site here for personalized care tips. Essentials
Originating from rainforests, Coral cactus prefers high humidity. It grows on other trees, and its primary way of getting moisture is through the rain and air. However, it doesn’t tolerate drought, and it should be watered immediately once you notice that the soil is very dry.Always use a well-draining mix to avoid root rot.
Watering check today
More
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Morning
Noonday
Evening
Morning watering can reduce the risk of fungal growth. Requirements
Every 2 weeks
Watering Frequency
Smart Seasonal Watering
Install the app for seasonal watering guidance
Download the App
Just like people, each plant has its own preferences and needs. Devote time to understanding your plants so you can nurture them properly. Observe your plants attentively, learning from their growth patterns, and becoming more in tune with their needs as you grow together. Keep a watchful eye on new plants and seedlings, as they are sensitive to both overwatering and underwatering. Shower them with gentle love and attention, fostering their growth and strength. Let the rhythm of your local climate guide your watering habits, adapting your schedule to the changing weather and the needs of your plants. Amount and Approach
Watering from the soil
1. Gradually pour water to the soil from above.
2. Stop watering your plant once water begins to flow out of the drainage holes in the pot.
3. Allow it to rest for 1 minute, then discard any water remaining in the tray, making sure your plant is not sitting in the water.
Avoid watering the leaves or flowers. Use a watering can with a long spout when watering to reduce bending and exertion, and ease your fatigue. Watering from the bottom
1. Fill the tray with water, ensure that the soil makes contact with the water.
2. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
3. Drain excess water from the tray if the soil is uniformly damp.
4. Watering more to the tray if the soil remains dry.
5. Allow it to sit for an additional 20 minutes before draining any excess water.
Avoid watering the leaves or flowers. Use a watering can with a long spout when watering to reduce bending and exertion, and ease your fatigue. Soaking the water
1. Select a location for soaking your plants, such as a tray or bathtub.
2. Pour a few centimeters of fresh water into the bottom of your chosen container.
3. Soaking your plant pots within the water, allowing them to absorb moisture for 1 hour.
4. Remove the plants from the water and let them dry.
Avoid watering the leaves or flowers. Use a watering can with a long spout when watering to reduce bending and exertion, and ease your fatigue. For Coral cactus, outdoor watering can be done using a sprinkler head. This involves using a sprinkler or hose nozzle to evenly spray water over the surface of the plant's soil. The sprinkler head can be adjusted to control the flow of water and the spray range, catering to the watering needs of different-sized plants. Keep them running for 10-20 minutes to ensure that water adequately penetrates the soil.
Important Symptoms
Overwatering
Coral cactus is prone to developing disease symptoms when overwatered, as it possesses some drought tolerance. It prefers a drier environment, and symptoms of overwatering include soft or mushy stems, root rot, stunted growth...
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(Symptom details and solutions)
Soft or mushy stems
Excess water can cause stems to become soft and mushy, as the cells become waterlogged and lose their structural integrity.
Root rot
Excess water in the soil can lead to the growth of harmful fungi and bacteria, causing the roots to rot and eventually kill the plant.
Stunted growth
Overwatering can reduce nutrient uptake and hinder plant growth, causing it to become stunted as the roots struggle to absorb the necessary nutrients.
Wilting
Overwatering can cause plants to wilt, despite the excess water, as the roots struggle to take up nutrients and oxygen due to waterlogged soil.
Increased susceptibility diseases
Overwatering plants may become more susceptible and diseases as their overall health declines, weakening their natural defenses.
Solutions
1. Adjust watering frequency based on seasons and soil dryness. Wait for soil to dry before watering.2. Increase soil aeration by loosening surface and gently stirring with a wooden stick or chopstick.3. Optimize environment with good ventilation and warmth to enhance water evaporation and prevent overwatering.
Underwatering
Coral cactus is not prone to experiencing plant health issues due to lack of watering. However, it can suffer from dehydration if watering is consistently forgotten for an extended period. Symptoms of dehydration include root damage, loss of turgor pressure ,slow growth...
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(Symptom details and solutions)
Root damage
Prolonged underwatering can cause root damage, making it difficult for the plant to absorb water even when it is available.
Loss of turgor pressure
When plants are underwatered, their cells lose water, causing a loss of turgor pressure. This can result in the plant appearing limp or deflated.
Slow growth
The plant may exhibit delayed development or slow growth due to not receiving enough water to support its growth.
Solutions
1. Thoroughly saturate soil with slow ring watering to ensure uniform and sufficient moisture for plants. 2. Increase air humidity with water trays or misting to slow leaf water evaporation. 3. Watering according to the recommended frequency.Adjust watering frequency based on seasons and soil dryness.
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Lighting
Indoor
Indoor
Outdoor
Choose a site here for personalized care tips. Requirements
Partial sun
Ideal
About 3-6 hours sunlight
Partial sun
Tolerance
About 3-6 hours sunlight
Watch how sunlight gracefully moves through your garden, and choose spots that provide the perfect balance of light and shade for your plants, ensuring their happiness. Discover information about plant diseases, toxicity, weed control and more.
Temperature
Indoor
Indoor
Outdoor
Choose a site here for personalized care tips. Requirements
Ideal
Tolerable
Unsuitable
Just like people, each plant has its own preferences. Learn about your plants' temperature needs and create a comforting environment for them to flourish. As you care for your plants, your bond with them will deepen. Trust your intuition as you learn about their temperature needs, celebrating the journey you share. Lovingly monitor the temperature around your plants and adjust their environment as needed. A thermometer can be your ally in this heartfelt endeavor. Be patient and gentle with yourself as you explore your plants' temperature needs. Cherish your successes, learn from challenges, and nurture your garden with love, creating a haven that reflects the warmth of your care. Essentials
Coral cactus originates from tropical regions, where the climate is typically warm and humid. As a result, it is well-adapted to high temperatures and humidity. It doesn't appreciate sudden temperature changes and prefers a stable temperature environment, so it's important to avoid temperature fluctuations indoors. It usually doesn't tolerate cold temperatures and requires higher temperatures for growth. If the environmental temperature drops too low, the plant may cease growth or even die.
Regional wintering strategies
Coral cactus is extremely heat-loving, and any cold temperatures can cause harm to it. In the autumn, it is recommended to bring outdoor-grown Coral cactus indoors and place it near a bright window, but it should be kept at a certain distance from heaters. Maintaining temperatures above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min} during winter is beneficial for plant growth. Any temperatures approaching {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min} are detrimental to the plant.
Important Symptoms
Low Temperature
Coral cactus prefers warm temperatures and is not tolerant of low temperatures. It thrives best when the temperature is above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min}. During winter, it should be kept above {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}. When the temperature falls below {Limit_growth_temperature}, the leaves may lighten in color. After frost damage, the color gradually turns brown or black, and symptoms such as wilting and drooping may occur.
Solutions
Trim off the frost-damaged parts. Immediately move indoors to a warm environment for cold protection. Choose a spot near a south-facing window to place the plant, ensuring ample sunlight. Additionally, avoid placing the plant near heaters or air conditioning vents to prevent excessive dryness in the air.
High Temperature
During summer, Coral cactus should be kept below {Suitable_growth_temperature_max}. When the temperature exceeds {Tolerable_growing_temperature_max}, the color of the leaves becomes lighter, and the plant becomes more susceptible to sunburn.
Solutions
Trim away the sunburned and dried-up parts. Move the plant to a location that provides shade from the midday and afternoon sun. Water the plant in the morning and evening to keep the soil moist.
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