by Evin Morrison, Extension Master Gardener
When you think of a cactus, you probably imagine arid deserts and spiky plants emerging from the sand, but a fascinating and often overlooked group of cacti thrives in the humid understory of tropical rainforests: jungle cacti.
These epiphytic plants, unlike their desert counterparts, are adapted to cling to trees or rocks, absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air and the organic matter they’ve rooted into. They boast unique growth habits, often featuring flattened, leaf-like stems or cascading chains that make beautiful hanging plants. If cared for properly, many will thank you with stunning, often fragrant blooms. So maybe it’s time to consider bringing one of these relatively low-maintenance houseplants home to your jungle.
The allure of jungle cacti lies in their diversity and beauty. Genera like Schlumbergera (Christmas and Thanksgiving cacti), Epiphyllum (Orchid cacti), Rhipsalis (Mistletoe cacti), and Hatiora (Dancing Bones cactus and Easter cacti) offer a wide array of forms and floral displays. From the vibrant, segmented stems of holiday cacti that treat us seasonally with their flamboyant, fireworks-like flowers to the elegant, strappy leaves and nocturnal blooms of orchid cacti, and the delicate, cascading strands of mistletoe cacti, there’s a jungle cactus to suit almost any aesthetic.
However, successfully cultivating these rainforest natives indoors requires a shift in your care tactics from the typical desert cactus you may already have. Understanding their natural habitat is key to replicating the conditions they need to flourish. So how do we keep our jungle cacti happy and healthy?
Photo © Evin Morrison
Photo © Evin Morrison
Photo © Evin Morrison
Light:
Jungle cacti thrive in bright, indirect light. In their native homes, they are sheltered by the canopy of trees, receiving filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch their delicate stems leaving brown crispy edges. An east- or west-facing window that receives gentle morning or afternoon sun is ideal. A north-facing window might also work if the light is sufficiently bright but usually won’t be bright enough for peak growth. In a room that gets direct sunlight, especially from southern-facing windows, position your jungle cactus several feet from the glass or use sheer curtains to diffuse the light. Not enough light will lead to leggy growth and a lack of flowering.
Watering:
This is where many new jungle cactus owners go wrong. Unlike desert cacti that store large amounts of water, jungle cacti have finer root systems adapted to absorb moisture frequently. They prefer consistently moist but well-draining soil. Remember most of them are growing attached to surfaces in the rainforest, not planted in soil, so lots of airflow around the roots is key. Allow the top inch or two of the soil to dry out between waterings, but avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially during their active growing and blooming periods. Water thoroughly until excess water drains from the bottom of the pot. Reduce watering slightly during their dormant periods, typically in the cooler months.
Humidity:
As they are rainforest plants, jungle cacti appreciate higher levels of humidity than is found in most homes, especially during dry winter months. Aim for a humidity level of 50-70%. You can increase humidity by grouping plants together or using a humidifier. Misting the plants occasionally can also be beneficial, especially in dry air but isn’t the most effective way to increase overall humidity. These plants would enjoy a home in a brightly lit bathroom that gets steamy from a shower. They also do quite well in hanging baskets on covered patios in the summertime.
Photo © Evin Morrison
Photo © Epiphyticcacti, CC BY-SA 4.0
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia
Soil and Potting:
Jungle cacti require a well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture. Add perlite, orchid bark, horticultural charcoal, and coconut coir to your planting mix to make it extra chunky. Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils that can lead to root rot. Overly wet soil can also cause the base of these succulent plants to begin to rot. Choose a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Since many jungle cacti are epiphytic, they don’t require large pots. Repotting is generally only necessary every two to three years when the plant becomes root bound. They also make wonderful choices for wall-mounted plantings and kokedama balls.
Temperature:
Jungle cacti prefer moderate temperatures, generally between 65-80°F (18-27°C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. Avoid placing them near drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations. A drop in temperature, especially in the fall, can actually help to initiate flowering in some species like Christmas and Thanksgiving cacti. However, since these plants mostly live closer to the equator, it’s very important to protect them from the coldest months of winter.
Common Issues:
Overwatering is the most common cause of problems with jungle cacti, leading to root rot. Yellowing or mushy stems are often signs of this. Remove the affected stems and roots and replant the remaining pieces in new soil to avoid the bacteria causing the rot to continue spreading. Underwatering can result in limp or shriveled, wrinkly stems. Slowly reintroduce water until the plant seems to plump back up. Soaking or overwatering after long periods of being dry can lead to root rot. Pest problems are relatively rare but can include mealybugs or scale. Inspect your plants regularly and address any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Propagation:
If you fall in love with jungle cacti, propagation will allow you to expand your collection or share these unique plants with friends. The most common method for propagating most jungle cacti is through stem cuttings. Simply take a healthy segment of the stem, ideally with one or more areoles (the small bumps where spines or flowers emerge), using a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears. Allow the cut end to callus over for a few days in a dry spot. This prevents rot by allowing the wound to heal. Once the cut is dry, plant the cutting in well-draining potting mix, burying the callused end just enough to keep it upright. Water lightly and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright, indirect light and warmth. Rooting typically occurs within a few weeks. Some genera, like Rhipsalis, can also be propagated from stem segments laid directly on the soil surface, where they will eventually root at the nodes. Holiday cacti are known for breaking, but each segment can be tucked into the soil and will root into a whole new plant.
By understanding the unique needs of these fascinating plants and replicating their rainforest environment as closely as possible, you can successfully grow thriving jungle cacti indoors, enjoy their beauty, and maybe even get to experience a stunning floral display. They offer a unique alternative to traditional houseplants and bring a touch of the exotic to your home.