Rhipsalis pilocarpa XL – Hairy-fruited Wickerware Cactus
- Low stock - 1 item left
ADD A BEAUTIFUL FITTED POT (OPTIONAL)
Rhipsalis pilocarpa, also known as the Hairy-fruited Wickerware Cactus or Mistletoe Cactus, is a wonderfully unusual indoor plant with long, trailing stems covered in fine, soft hairs. This established specimen (25x50cm) creates instant impact, with its delicate texture, cascading habit, and the potential to produce tiny, star-shaped flowers followed by mistletoe-like berries. If you’re looking for a rare cactus that thrives indoors, this is an ideal choice.
Native habitat and growth pattern
Rhipsalis pilocarpa is native to the cloud forests of Brazil, where it grows as an epiphyte, nestled in trees rather than in the ground. Unlike desert cacti, it prefers shaded, humid environments and has evolved to capture light through its slender stems. In the home, it grows in a tangle of soft, trailing branches that can eventually form long, curtain-like cascades.
Styling tips
This cactus is perfect for a hanging planter or placed high on a shelf where its trailing stems can spill downwards. Its natural, whimsical form works beautifully in bohemian or minimalist interiors, softening hard edges and adding texture. Pair with ceramic pots in muted tones for a modern look, or with natural baskets for an earthy, relaxed style.
Care guide
-
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light and will tolerate partial shade. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its stems.
-
Water: Keep the soil lightly moist in spring and summer, allowing the top layer to dry before watering again. Water less in winter.
-
Humidity: Adaptable to normal household humidity but appreciates a slightly more humid environment.
-
Feeding: During the growing season, feed monthly with a gentle fertiliser. We recommend our Organic Tropical Plant Food, a vegan, organic tonic perfect for Rhipsalis and other tropical houseplants.
-
Temperature: Average household conditions are ideal. Keep above 10°C.
Why choose this plant?
The Hairy-fruited Wickerware Cactus is a brilliant plant for anyone seeking something different from the usual succulents or cacti. It’s pet-safe, easy to grow indoors, and has a unique look that works in both modern and relaxed interiors. Its delicate, cascading stems and occasional blooms make it a true conversation piece.
Interesting facts
-
Rhipsalis is the only cactus genus that naturally occurs outside the Americas, with species found in Africa, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka.
-
The nickname “Mistletoe Cactus” comes from its berry-like fruits that resemble mistletoe berries.
-
Unlike desert cacti, Rhipsalis prefers dappled shade, reflecting its rainforest origins.
FAQs
Q: Is Rhipsalis pilocarpa safe for pets?
A: Yes, it’s considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it one of the best pet-friendly cactus choices.
Q: Does Rhipsalis pilocarpa need a lot of light?
A: No, it does well in bright, indirect light and even tolerates partial shade, which makes it perfect for UK homes with softer light.
Q: Why are the stems on my Rhipsalis shrivelling?
A: This usually happens if the plant is too dry or exposed to strong sunlight. Adjust watering and move it to a gentler light spot.
Q: Will it flower indoors?
A: Yes, given the right conditions, it can produce small white blooms with a delicate fragrance, followed by mistletoe-like fruits.
Explore more
If you love unique and low-maintenance plants, explore our range of trailing plants and hanging cacti. For gifting options, check out our gift card – a thoughtful choice for any plant lover.
All our plants are supplied in a plastic nursery pot
Happy Houseplants delivers live houseplants across the UK with fast, carbon-neutral tracked service.
At Happy Houseplants, we ship all live plants via DPD’s 24-hour tracked carbon-neutral service. Delivery usually takes 7–10 working days, but in most cases your plants will arrive much sooner. You can read more about delivery here.
We post to most of the UK, but we’re unable to deliver to the Scottish Highlands and Islands, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, the Isle of Wight, the Scilly Isles and the Channel Islands because of higher shipping costs.
When we list a plant’s height, it always includes the grow pot, stem, foliage and living root system — not just what you see above the soil. Because every plant is unique, yours may arrive a little smaller or larger than the size listed.
Happy Houseplants is the UK’s leading online plant shop for rare and unusual houseplants. At Happy Houseplants, we’re more than just a shop. We’re a family-run business, proud RHS Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal winners, and home to the UK’s number one houseplant blog. Plant lovers across the country trust us for beautiful, healthy plants and expert care.
We specialise in everything from easy-care houseplants for beginners to rare and unusual plants for collectors. Every order is hand-packed by our small team in sustainable, plastic-free packaging and delivered through DPD’s carbon-neutral tracked service.
We’re rated Excellent on Trustpilot and consistently praised for the quality of our plants, the care we take with packaging, and our friendly, knowledgeable service. When you choose Happy Houseplants, you’re choosing sustainability, knowledge and a genuine passion for plants.
Looking for more vibrant and easy-care houseplants? Check out our Easy Care Houseplants collection or browse our Pet Friendly Houseplants if you’ve got furry friends at home. And why not read the Happy Houseplants blog for more styling ideas and plant care tips?
Happy Houseplants runs the UK’s number one houseplant blog with expert tips and guidance.
At Happy Houseplants, we believe buying a plant is only the start — helping it thrive is what really matters. That’s why we run the UK’s number one houseplant blog, filled with expert advice on watering, light, feeding, pest care and more.
Every plant we sell comes with straightforward care tips, and if you’d like to dive deeper you’ll find hundreds of helpful guides and styling ideas on our blog. Explore them here: Happy Houseplants Blog.
Whether you’re just starting out or building a collection, you’ll always find support and inspiration from us.
Happy Houseplants makes plant gifting simple with handwritten cards and nationwide delivery.
At Happy Houseplants, we believe plants make the perfect living gift — thoughtful, long-lasting, and always a joy to receive. Unlike flowers that fade quickly, a houseplant grows and thrives, becoming a lasting reminder of your care.
Sending a gift is simple. Just add your message at checkout and we’ll handwrite it on a card for you. We never include prices or invoices, so your plant arrives as a pure surprise.
Our carefully chosen range includes everything from easy-care indoor plants for beginners to rare and unusual plants for collectors — ideal for birthdays, thank-yous, housewarmings or simply to brighten someone’s day. Every gift is hand-packed in sustainable, plastic-free packaging and delivered nationwide with DPD’s carbon-neutral tracked service.
When you send a gift from Happy Houseplants, you’re not just giving a plant — you’re sending a beautiful, meaningful gesture that lasts.
Happy Houseplants makes it easy to find pet-safe and easy-care houseplants in the UK.
At Happy Houseplants, we know every home is different. That’s why we make it easy to find plants that fit your lifestyle — whether you’re looking for pet-safe options or low-maintenance plants that thrive with minimal fuss.
Our Pet-Friendly Houseplants are carefully chosen so you can add greenery to your home without worry around cats or dogs.
Our Easy Care Houseplants are perfect for beginners or busy households, with varieties that don’t demand constant attention but still bring life and beauty to your space.
