Lepismium cruciforme (Jungle Cactus)

Lepismium cruciforme is a jungle cactus from the forests of Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina, where it grows on trees and rocks rather than in sand. You might also see it sold under its old name, Rhipsalis cruciformis.

Its stems are slim and three- to four-sided, with small tufts of soft white hair along the edges instead of real spines. They branch and trail as they grow, so it's made for a hanging basket. Give it more light and the stems take on a purple-red blush. In spring it can flower in pale pink, followed by glossy magenta berries.

Give it bright, indirect light. Gentle morning sun is fine, but keep it out of hot afternoon sun. It needs more water than a desert cactus. Water when the top couple of centimetres of mix feel dry, and less often through winter. Let excess drain away and don't leave it sitting in water.

Available in a 200mm hanging basket.