Rhipsalis Oblonga (Mistletoe Cactus)

Description

 

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🌵 About Rhipsalis Oblonga

Rhipsalis oblonga is a tropical, epiphytic cactus with flat, cascading green segments. Unlike desert cacti, it loves shade, moisture, and humidity.

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🌤 Light

• Prefers bright, indirect light
• Tolerates partial shade
• Avoid strong direct sun (causes yellowing/burn)

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💧 Watering

• Water when top 2–3 cm soil is dry
• Keep soil slightly moist, not soggy
• Reduce watering in winter
• Never let pot sit in water

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🌫 Humidity

• Likes medium to high humidity (50–70%)
• Occasional misting helps
• Ideal for bathrooms/balconies with filtered light

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🌡 Temperature

• Ideal: 18–30°C
• Protect from cold winds
• Avoid below 12°C

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🌿 Soil / Potting Mix

Use a light, airy, fast-draining mix:

• Cocopeat / peat moss
• Perlite / sand
• Orchid bark / charcoal
• Vermicompost

(Mix like orchid soil, not cactus soil)

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🌼 Fertilizer

• Feed once every 3–4 weeks (spring–monsoon)
• Use diluted liquid fertilizer (½ strength)
• Avoid heavy feeding

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✂️ Pruning & Propagation

• Trim long stems to keep shape
• Propagate from stem cuttings:
  • Let cut ends dry 1 day
  • Plant in moist cocopeat mix

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🐛 Common Problems

Problem	Cause	Solution
Wrinkled stems	Underwatering	Water regularly
Yellowing	Too much sun/water	Move to shade, improve drainage
Root rot	Waterlogging	Repot in airy mix
Slow growth	Low light/nutrients	Brighter spot + light feeding

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🌟 Display & Business Tip

For best look in hanging pots at Alans Garden:

• Hang in bright shaded areas
• Use coco-lined baskets
• Rotate monthly for even growth

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