Rhipsalis ewaldiana

Botanical origin of Rhipsalis ewaldiana

Rhipsalis ewaldiana is restricted to Atlantic Forest in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte in wet forest.

For many years, the species was known from only a few old collections. It was later rediscovered within its narrow range.

Everyday care for Rhipsalis ewaldiana

Light and position: Bright indirect light works well, with a hanging pot or high shelf giving the long main stems space to descend. Gentle morning or evening sun can be introduced gradually.

Moisture and humidity: Let only the surface dry before watering. Water thoroughly and let the excess drain away. Moderate to higher humidity works well.

Temperature and mix: Mild to warm, stable room temperatures are suitable. Fine bark with pumice or perlite keeps the mix open while holding enough moisture for the roots.

Feeding and repotting: Feed the plant lightly while new stems and side shoots are growing. Reduce feeding when growth slows, and repot when roots are crowded or drainage through the old mix becomes slow.

Propagation: Healthy stem cuttings can be rooted in an airy mix that is kept lightly moist.

Common problems and solutions for Rhipsalis ewaldiana

• Short side shoots wrinkle before the main stems: The short side shoots may wrinkle before the thicker main stems when the plant is too dry. If the mix is dry, water until it is evenly moist and then let the container drain.
• A long main stem softens from the base upward: Softening that moves upward from 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.
• Cottony white insects collect where side shoots meet the main stem: Where side shoots meet the main stem is an easy place for mealybugs to hide. Isolate the plant, remove visible insects, and use a product labelled for mealybugs on ornamental plants. Follow the label, including any repeat treatment.
• New main stems become unusually thin and elongated, with long bare stretches between side shoots: Long bare stretches on unusually thin new stems can develop in low light. Move it to a brighter position with indirect light.

Rhipsalis ewaldiana 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 ewaldiana mean, and who first published it?

Rhipsalis comes from Greek rhips, wickerwork or basket weave. Ewaldiana is an honorific epithet formed from the surname Ewald.

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

Wilhelm A. Barthlott and Nigel Paul Taylor first described Rhipsalis ewaldiana in 1995 in Bradleya, volume 13, page 66.