Rhipsalis crispata

Natural range and habitat of Rhipsalis crispata

Rhipsalis crispata is native to eastern and southern Brazil, where it grows mainly on trees in Atlantic Forest.

Rhipsalis crispata is globally classified as Endangered, and loss of Atlantic Forest habitat is a major pressure on wild populations.

Home care for Rhipsalis crispata

Light: Keep the broad flat stems in bright indirect light and protect them from hot midday sun. A little early or late sun is suitable.

Water and humidity: Warm room temperatures and moderate humidity work well. Water thoroughly once the surface has dried and the pot has become lighter, then let all excess drain away.

Potting mix: An airy blend of fine bark and pumice or perlite gives the flat-stemmed plant reliable drainage while retaining some moisture.

Feeding and repotting: Repot when roots fill the container or drainage slows because the mix has become dense. Feed lightly while new flat sections are growing, then reduce feeding when growth slows.

Propagation: A healthy flat section can be started as a cutting. Use an airy mix and keep it lightly moist while roots form.

Common symptoms and solutions for Rhipsalis crispata

• Flat sections curl inward and develop deep creases: Deep creasing and inward curling usually mean the flat sections have lost too much water. If the mix is dry, soak it well and allow all excess water to drain away.
• Large pale or straw-coloured patches appear on the surface: Large pale patches on the exposed surface are typical of sun scorch. Move the plant away from harsh direct light and introduce gentler sun slowly.
• Cottony white insects collect along the scalloped margins: Mealybugs often collect along the scalloped edges and areoles. Isolate the plant, remove visible insects, and use a product labelled for mealybugs on ornamental plants. Follow the label, including any repeat treatment.
• A translucent brown patch spreads from a stem base: A translucent brown patch spreading from the base can indicate rot. 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.

Rhipsalis crispata 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.

The meaning and history of Rhipsalis crispata

Rhipsalis comes from Greek rhips, wickerwork or basket weave. Crispata means curled, waved or finely crinkled, referring to the pronounced margins of its flattened stems.

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

Adrian Hardy Haworth first described it as Epiphyllum crispatum in 1830 in Philosophical Magazine and Annals of Philosophy, new series, volume 7, page 111. Louis Karl Georg Pfeiffer later placed it in Rhipsalis as Rhipsalis crispata in 1836 in Allgemeine Gartenzeitung, volume 4, page 186.