Light
Bright Indirect Light
Filtered or bright indirect light. Avoid hot, direct afternoon sun.
Reference image 
Reference image Lepismium floribundum
Overview
Lepismium floribundum is a unique epiphytic cactus species belonging to the family Cactaceae, characterized by its cascading, trailing stems 1. Unlike typical desert cacti, it thrives in the subtropical rainforest canopy, growing on tree trunks or rock crevices. It is a highly valued ornamental plant for hanging baskets due to its delicate structure and profuse blooming.
Taxonomy and Naming
Belonging to the genus Lepismium, the name is derived from the Greek word 'lepis', meaning scale, referring to the small scale-like structures on the stems. The specific epithet 'floribundum' denotes its highly floriferous habit, producing abundance of flowers during its blooming season 2. It has historically been associated with the genus Rhipsalis.
Distribution and Habitat
This species is native to Southern America, specifically restricted to the southern and southeastern regions of Brazil, including Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul, and Santa Catarina 1. It inhabits humid, subtropical forests where it grows under the partial shade of the forest canopy, benefiting from high ambient humidity and air movement.
Appearance
The plant features elongated, flat or slightly angled green segments that gracefully drape downwards. Small areoles line the margins of the segments. In late spring and summer, numerous small, bell-shaped, creamy white to pale pink flowers erupt from these areoles, which later develop into small, globose, colorful berries 2.
Cultivation
In cultivation, it requires bright, filtered light and protection from harsh direct afternoon sun. The growing medium should be highly porous, mimics its natural epiphytic habitat with orchid bark and perlite. Unlike desert cacti, it prefers consistent moisture without being waterlogged, and benefits from moderate to high indoor humidity levels.
Common Cultivation Mistakes
The most prevalent mistake is overwatering, which leads to root rot in dense, poorly-drained soils. Conversely, treating it like a dry desert cactus by letting it dry out completely for extended periods will cause stem shriveling. Inadequate light results in weak, leggy growth and a lack of flowers 1.
Bibliography
References
- Plants of the World Online (POWO). Kew Science. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/ ↩
- Anderson, E. F. (2001). The Cactus Family. Timber Press, Portland, Oregon. ↩
Watering
6-14 Days
Water once the top layers of soil dry out. Do not let it stand in soggy soil.
Soil
Aerate, humus-rich and well-draining epiphytic soil mix (mix of orchid bark, perlite, and cactus soil)
Very airy, well-draining epiphytic mix with orchid bark, peat, and coarse perlite.
Safety
Pet Friendly
Non-toxic and generally safe for households with cats, dogs, and children.
Difficulty
Easy
Easy; very resilient as long as it is not overwatered and is kept warm.
Native Habitat
Southern America, Brazil
Found natively in the coastal and inland subtropical rainforests of Southern Brazil, growing as an epiphyte nestled in tree branches.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Lepismium floribundum?
Water when the top layer of soil dries out, roughly every 6 days in summer. In winter, reduce watering to once every 14 days.
Is Lepismium floribundum toxic to pets?
No, this plant is non-toxic to both cats and dogs, making it pet-friendly.
What is the best soil and pot for it?
A well-draining, airy epiphytic mix containing orchid bark and perlite, in a hanging pot with drainage holes, is ideal.
Should it receive direct sunlight?
No, harsh direct sunlight can sunburn the stems. It prefers bright, filtered indirect light.
How can I encourage blooming?
Ensure plenty of indirect light during spring/summer and provide a cooler rest period (12-15°C) in winter to stimulate bud formation.
What is its growth rate?
Under optimal conditions, it has a moderate-to-fast growth rate, with cascading stems elongating several centimeters per year.
Why are the stems shriveling?
Shriveling is usually caused by underwatering, or conversely, root rot from overwatering which prevents the plant from absorbing moisture.
Does it need high humidity indoors?
Yes, being a tropical epiphyte, it prefers humidity levels above 50%. Mist the plant if your indoor air is very dry.
How do you propagate it?
Easily propagate by taking stem cuttings, letting them calloused for a few days, and then rooting them in a moist, sandy soil mix.
Can it be left outdoors in winter?
No, it is frost-sensitive. It should be brought indoors when temperatures drop below 10°C (50°F).