Large Lepismium Cactus (Bolivianum Forest Cactus)

This hanging houseplant is super stylish and we love its unusual looks! Lepismium Bolivianum really gives that rainforest feeling and is ideal as part of your forest bathing collection. It’s a pretty unusual cactus because it doesn’t have a rigid spine. You’re probably used to thinking of cacti as upright and rigid - but this one just goes to show that they aren’t all like that!

Have it tumbling from a hanging basket or vigorously cascading from a pot on top of a dresser or table.  Perched on a low shelf it will really bring the tropics to your rooms with its dark emerald leaves and de-stressing feel. Bring a bit of wild into your home! It’s relaxing just looking at the foliage which hangs from the pot giving such a free, abstract look.

If you’re looking for a trailing houseplant with bags of style and lots of impact at a reasonable price then this fits the bill - it’s a relatively cheap houseplant and gives so much back in chic!

Forest Cactus a native of the Bolivian jungle and the leaves are made up of flat stems - making the mad, crazy trailing habit of this wonderful cactus.  It can grow up to a metre long so it’s a fast grower and really dramatic in terms of impact in a room! A real forest curtain!

We’re the people to come to for trailing indoor plants (UK) and Forest Cactus is a great style plant that would also make a wonderful indoor plant gift! We’ll include a free, handwritten card if you leave your gift message at the basket stage of checkout.

Lepismium Bolivianum care level

This is an easy-care houseplant, suitable for beginners.

Where should I put it?

It likes bright but indirect light.

How should I water it?

Makes sure the soil is allowed to dry out between waterings.

Should I feed it?

Yes, twice a month through the summer or March through September.

When developing our original Happy Houseplants’ Vegan Cactus & Succulent Food, we decided not to tinker with it too much, so you'll find no chemical supplements in this 100% cruelty-free vegan product. Our organic original Vegan Cactus & Succulent food is made from Seaweed harvested sustainably.

Seaweed provides a delicate blend of growth hormones and micronutrients that is perfect for all indoor plants. Houseplants grow throughout spring, summer and autumn, so they will benefit from organic fertiliser during this time to encourage flowering and keep them healthy and well. Check out our full houseplant food range here

Is it suitable if I have pets?

No, it can be toxic to pets.

What size is it?

W21cm x 50cm 

If you’d like to see a short video on general houseplant care, we’ve made one for you!

All our plants are supplied in a plastic nursery pot

FAQ for Caring for Lepismium, Schlumbergera, and Epiphyllum Cacti

1. How do you care for Lepismium?
Lepismium is a tropical epiphytic cactus, meaning it thrives in indirect light and prefers a humid environment. Keep it away from direct sunlight to avoid scorching its leaves. Use well-draining cactus or orchid mix soil, and ensure the plant is in a pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot.

2. How often do you water Lepismium?
Water Lepismium when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In warmer months, this may mean watering once a week, but during winter, reduce the frequency to once every two weeks or even less, depending on the humidity in your home.

3. How do you take care of a Schlumbergera cactus?
Schlumbergera, also known as the Christmas or Thanksgiving Cactus, thrives in bright, indirect light. Water it when the top inch of soil is dry, but don't let the plant sit in water. It prefers a cooler room temperature between 15–20°C. Fertilise it monthly with a balanced houseplant fertiliser during spring and summer.

4. How do you take care of an Epiphyllum cactus?
Epiphyllum cacti prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Water when the top few inches of soil are dry, and ensure the pot has proper drainage. Keep the plant in a warm, humid environment, and protect it from extreme temperatures. Fertilise during the growing season with a balanced fertiliser.

5. How do I encourage Epiphyllum to bloom?
To encourage blooming, place the Epiphyllum cactus in a bright location with indirect sunlight. During winter, allow the plant to experience a cooler period with less water and no fertiliser, as this dormant phase triggers blooming. Once flower buds appear, resume regular care.

6. Where is the best place to put an orchid cactus?
An orchid cactus, such as Epiphyllum, prefers a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves. A spot near an east or north-facing window is ideal.

7. Should I mist Epiphyllum?
Yes, misting Epiphyllum occasionally can help replicate its natural humid environment, especially during dry periods or in homes with low humidity. However, avoid over-misting, as too much moisture can lead to fungal issues. Keep the leaves dry while ensuring proper air circulation.