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Rhipsalis burchellii - Mistletoe Cactus Hanging Basket

Ed's Plant Shop  |  SKU: EPS-RHIPS-BURCHHB-6IN

Size
$65.00
Taxes, discounts and shipping calculated at checkout.

Description

A Rare, Cloud-Like Cactus for Your Indoor Jungle

Rhipsalis burchellii is a delicate and highly sought-after rainforest cactus known for its fine, cascading stems that create an airy, cloud-like appearance. Unlike desert cacti, this species is a true epiphyte, growing naturally on tree branches in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. Its soft, feathery texture brings elegance and gentle movement to any space, making it a perfect statement plant for hanging baskets, wall planters, or high shelves.

This rare Rhipsalis species thrives in bright, indirect light and requires remarkably little maintenance. Its easygoing nature makes it an excellent choice for both new plant parents and experienced collectors looking to add a unique trailing specimen to their indoor garden.


Plant Profile

  • Scientific Name: Rhipsalis burchellii
  • Common Names: Rhipsalis, Mistletoe Cactus, Cloud Cactus
  • Family: Cactaceae
  • Native Range: Central & Southern America (tropical rainforests)

Mistletoe Cactus Care Guide

  • Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Best placed a few feet away from a window. Can tolerate lower light for extended periods.
  • Water: Keep soil lightly moist but never wet. Water when the top layer feels dry. Reduce watering in fall and winter.
  • Humidity: Average household humidity is fine; appreciates slightly higher levels.
  • Temperature: Thrives above 50°F; avoid cold drafts.
  • Pruning: Trim brown or damaged stems to maintain a full, attractive cascade.
  • Feeding: Fertilize monthly in spring and summer using a diluted cactus or balanced fertilizer.
  • Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets, though caution is always recommended with children and animals.

Fun Fact: The “Cloud Cactus”

Despite being a cactus, Rhipsalis burchellii thrives in rainforest environments, not deserts. Its fine, airy stems and soft texture have earned it the nickname “Cloud Cactus”, perfectly describing its light, feathery form.


History of Rhipsalis burchellii

This species belongs to one of the most unusual groups in the cactus family. Rhipsalis evolved in tropical forests and adapted to grow as an epiphyte—living on trees rather than in soil. Over time, its seeds spread far beyond the Americas, making Rhipsalis the only cactus genus naturally found in parts of Africa and Asia. Its resilience, unique appearance, and shade tolerance have made it a favorite among plant collectors and indoor gardeners worldwide.

Live Plants – Frequently Asked Questions

Shipping

What size plant will I receive?


The size shown on the product page refers to the approximate diameter of the nursery pot, not the plant’s total height or width. Plant height, fullness, leaf size, vine length, and growth pattern naturally vary by variety and individual plant.

Will my plant look exactly like the photographs?

Each live plant is naturally unique. The plant you receive will be the variety and pot size ordered, but its shape, coloration, leaf count, fullness, and maturity may differ from the example photographs. Seasonal growth, recent pruning, and natural variation may also affect its appearance.

Is the decorative pot included?


Unless the product listing specifically states otherwise, live plants arrive in a standard nursery grow pot. Decorative planters, baskets, saucers, stands, and other accessories are sold separately. Please review the product title and description to confirm what is included.

When will my plant ship or be delivered?

Please allow approximately 5–15 business days for processing and preparation. Five business days is the earliest end of the range, and many orders require most or all of the stated processing window.

Processing time is separate from carrier transit time. Local NYC delivery also requires preparation and does not automatically mean same-day or next-day service.

Orders may occasionally require additional time because of plant availability, order volume, weather, seasonal demand, or courier coordination. We will send an update when confirmed fulfillment, tracking, or delivery information becomes available.

How are live plants packaged?

Each live plant is inspected and packed according to its size, shape, and shipping needs. Soil and foliage may be secured to reduce movement during transit, and protective materials may be added when appropriate.

Temporary drooping, shifted soil, limited leaf loss, or minor cosmetic stress can occur while a plant adjusts after shipping. This does not necessarily mean the plant is unhealthy.

What should I do when my plant arrives?

Unpack the plant promptly and carefully remove all protective packaging. Place it in appropriate light and allow it time to adjust to its new environment.

Check the soil before watering. Do not water automatically upon arrival because the plant may already have adequate moisture. Avoid immediately fertilizing, heavily pruning, or repeatedly moving the plant while it acclimates.

Should I repot my plant immediately?

We generally recommend allowing a newly delivered plant time to acclimate before repotting unless there is an urgent plant-health reason to do so.

Repotting an eligible small plant during the first 15 days may void the Plant Health Guarantee because it can make the cause of decline difficult to determine.

What should I do if my plant arrives damaged?

Report shipping or delivery damage within 48 hours. Keep the plant and all packaging while the concern is being reviewed.

Please provide your order number, a photograph of the entire plant, close-up photographs of the concern, and photographs of the box and packaging when applicable.

Small plants in nursery pots measuring 8 inches and below may also qualify for our 15-Day Plant Health Guarantee. Large plants in nursery pots measuring 10 inches and above have a 48-hour inspection and reporting window.

Review our Refund & Returns Policy for complete eligibility and documentation requirements.

How can I get help with my order or plant?

For the fastest assistance, use the AI chat assistant on our website. It can help with common order-status, delivery, policy, product, and plant-care questions.

Have your order number and the email address used at checkout available when asking about an order. When a concern requires photographs or human review, email support@edsplantshop.com.