Rhipsalis agudoensis

Natural range and habitat of Rhipsalis agudoensis

Rhipsalis agudoensis is known from Atlantic Forest around Itatiaia and Penedo in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte in dense forest at around 800 m elevation.

The original specimen was labelled as coming from Agudo in Rio Grande do Sul, although that locality is now considered doubtful. Known wild populations occur in Rio de Janeiro.

Care for Rhipsalis agudoensis

Light and position: Keep it in bright indirect light with enough open space for the broad ribbed stems to arch freely. Gentle early or late sun is also possible once the plant has adjusted to the brighter position.

Room conditions and watering: Warm, steady room temperatures and moderate to higher humidity work well. Water when the surface has dried and the pot feels lighter. Soak the mix evenly and let the pot drain fully.

Potting mix: Use a loose epiphytic mix with fine bark and pumice or perlite so the roots get plenty of air while the mix still holds some moisture.

Feeding and repotting: While new stems are forming, use only a light feed. Cut back on fertiliser when growth slows. Repot once roots fill the container or drainage slows because the mix has become dense.

Propagation: Broad, healthy stem sections can be rooted as cuttings in an airy mix kept lightly moist.

Common problems with Rhipsalis agudoensis

• Broad stems wrinkle and fold inward: If the mix is dry and the pot has become much lighter, the broad stems are probably short of water. Soak the mix thoroughly and let the pot drain.
• Soft brown tissue develops near the base: Soft brown tissue near the base can indicate rot after prolonged wetness. Use a clean tool to remove every soft or decaying section back to firm healthy tissue and discard the rot. Check the roots and potting mix as well; repot only if the roots are affected or the potting mix stays wet too long or has become dense.
• Pale dry patches form on the brightest side: Dry pale patches on the most exposed side usually point to sun scorch. Move the plant back from strong direct light and reintroduce any morning or evening sun gradually.
• Cottony white insects collect along the ribs: Cottony insects along the ribs are typical of mealybugs. Isolate the plant, remove visible insects, and use a product labelled for mealybugs on ornamental plants. Follow the label, including any repeat treatment.

Rhipsalis agudoensis is non-toxic to cats and dogs

• This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs.
• Its effects on people are unclear, so keep it away from young children who may chew it.
• Eating a large amount can still cause an upset stomach. Seek medical or veterinary advice if symptoms continue.

What does Rhipsalis agudoensis mean, and who first published it?

Rhipsalis comes from Greek rhips, wickerwork or basket weave. Agudoensis means “from Agudo”, preserving the locality used in the original name.

Joseph Gaertner established the genus Rhipsalis in 1788 in De Fructibus et Seminibus Plantarum, volume 1, page 137.

Nigel Paul Taylor first described Rhipsalis agudoensis in 2003 in Cactaceae Systematics Initiatives, volume 16, page 12.