Lepismium monacanthum

lepismium monacanthum (syn. rhipsalis monacantha) is native to bolivia and argentina where it grows mostly epiphytic (sitting on trees). its stems are flat or three-angled and can get more than 40 cm/15 inches long. there are two subspecies (ssp. monacanthum and ssp. espinosa), both flowering in orange. young plants are growing erect, older ones hanging.

care

lepismium monacanthum does best on a sunny to bright location. during summer it can be placed outside, but make sure that rainwater can easily flow out of the pot. to avoid burned leaves it should slowly be adapted to the direct sun.

it needs a well drained soil, there are special mixes for epiphytic cacti available. if you want to mix your own, you can use humus, orchid bark and grit (2:1:1).

keep it moist but not wet, water running out of the pot should be removed after a few minutes. before watering next allow to dry. sitting in water can cause rotten roots.

a half strength cactus fertilizer can be given monthly in spring and summer and every six to eight weeks in fall and winter (if placed at room temperature).

lepismium monacanthum needs a winter minum of 15 °c/59 °f. if placed at this temperature give less water and don’t feed.

for flowering a night time heating reduction in spring can be positive.

propagation

lepismium monacanthum can be propagated with seeds or cuttings.