{"title":"Lepismium — Hanging Cacti","description":"\u003ch2\u003eLepismium — Trailing cacti from South American forests, perfect for hanging\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eLepismium\u003c\/strong\u003e, sometimes called \"coral cactus\" or \"forest cactus,\" is one of the most surprising cacti — far from the cliché of the desert cactus covered in spines. The genus includes about a dozen species of epiphytic or lithophytic cacti native to the \u003cstrong\u003ehumid tropical forests of South America\u003c\/strong\u003e (Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, Uruguay, Colombia), where they grow attached to tree branches or rocks without touching the ground. The name \u003cem\u003eLepismium\u003c\/em\u003e comes from the Greek \u003cem\u003elepisma\u003c\/em\u003e (\"scale\"), referring to the scales visible at the areoles from which the flowers emerge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhat sets Lepismium apart from the classic cactus is its adaptation to \u003cstrong\u003eepiphytic forest life\u003c\/strong\u003e: no sharp spines (or tiny invisible spines), flexible stems that cascade down, moderate light needs, and especially a \u003cstrong\u003etolerance for ambient humidity\u003c\/strong\u003e that makes it one of the few cacti perfectly suited for well-lit bathrooms. To compare with other trailing cacti, the selection of \u003ca href=\"\/en\/collections\/cactus-succulentes\"\u003ecacti and succulents\u003c\/a\u003e in the catalog offers a complete overview of decorative options.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eBolivianum, Cruciforme, Houletianum, Asuntapatense: choosing your Lepismium\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe collection brings together the main cultivated species of the genus, each with its characteristic shape and silhouette. The \u003cstrong\u003eLepismium bolivianum\u003c\/strong\u003e, native to Bolivian forests, has long, thin, round, hanging stems that can reach over a meter — it is the most iconic species, most often sold as \"coral cactus,\" perfect for a hanging at eye level. The \u003cstrong\u003eLepismium cruciforme\u003c\/strong\u003e (and its \u003cstrong\u003e'Rojo'\u003c\/strong\u003e variant with reddish hues) gets its name from the Latin \u003cem\u003ecrux\u003c\/em\u003e (\"cross\"): its flattened stems with 3-4 angles form characteristic crosses in section, giving the plant a unique graphic look. The \u003cstrong\u003eLepismium houletianum\u003c\/strong\u003e stands out with its wider, flattened foliage-like stems, ideal for a dense \"green cascade\" effect in a hanging basket. The rarer \u003cstrong\u003eLepismium asuntapatense\u003c\/strong\u003e appeals to collectors with its thin, trailing stems and more airy habit. To expand a collection of hanging plants, the selection of \u003ca href=\"\/en\/collections\/plantes-retombantes\"\u003etrailing plants and hangings\u003c\/a\u003e gathers all species in the catalog suited for this type of use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eLight, watering, and care for Lepismium\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLepismium enjoys \u003cstrong\u003ebright indirect or filtered light\u003c\/strong\u003e, never direct burning sun that leaves brown spots on its stems. An east- or west-facing window, or a spot 1-2 meters from a south-facing bay window, suits it perfectly. Unlike desert cacti, Lepismium \u003cstrong\u003etolerates and enjoys ambient humidity\u003c\/strong\u003e: it is one of the few cacti that thrives in a well-lit bathroom, where shower steam reminds it of its original forest habitat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWatering should be \u003cstrong\u003eregular but moderate\u003c\/strong\u003e: let the substrate dry out on the surface between waterings, without ever soaking it. During the growing season (March to October), water about once a week on average; in winter, space out to 2-3 weeks. Water should preferably be non-calcareous (rainwater or filtered water) — Lepismium poorly tolerate lime that eventually clogs their areoles. The ideal substrate is a \u003cstrong\u003especial mix for epiphytic cacti or orchids\u003c\/strong\u003e that drains well: cactus soil + pine bark + a bit of sand. Frequent misting of the foliage in hot weather replicates the humidity of their native forest and promotes healthy growth. If stems yellow or soften, the \u003ca href=\"\/en\/blogs\/conseils\/feuilles-jaunes-5-causes-et-solutions\"\u003eyellow leaves guide\u003c\/a\u003e helps identify the exact cause — overwatering, drafts, temperature shock. The \u003ca href=\"\/en\/blogs\/conseils\/arrosage-des-plantes-dinterieur-le-guide-complet-pour-ne-plus-jamais-sur-arroser\"\u003ecomplete watering guide\u003c\/a\u003e also details good practices to avoid the most common mistakes with epiphytic plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eLepismium in hanging pots, high shelves, or bookcases\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor decoration, Lepismium is \u003cstrong\u003ethe quintessential hanging plant\u003c\/strong\u003e — its natural trailing habit highlights vertical volumes like no other. A Lepismium bolivianum in a decorative pot suspended in macramé in front of a window instantly creates a bohemian jungle vibe that is especially photogenic. On top of a shelf or bookcase, its cascading stems soften the sharp angles of furniture and bring an airy plant presence without taking up floor space. In a bright bathroom, a Lepismium placed high near the bathtub creates a natural spa scene. To build a fuller plant scene, pairing it with a \u003ca href=\"\/en\/collections\/rhipsalis\"\u003eRhipsalis\u003c\/a\u003e with thinner stems (a botanical cousin of Lepismium) or a trailing \u003ca href=\"\/en\/collections\/ceropegia\"\u003eCeropegia\u003c\/a\u003e forms a rare coherent aerial trio. The \u003ca href=\"\/en\/blogs\/conseils\/plantes-dinterieur-pour-chaque-piece-guide-complet-par-type-despace\"\u003eby room guide\u003c\/a\u003e details the best combinations according to each space’s layout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDiscreet flowering and easy propagation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA little-known feature of Lepismium: it \u003cstrong\u003eblooms indoors\u003c\/strong\u003e in spring (May-June), provided it has been properly cared for during winter. The flowers, small but numerous, bell-shaped from white to pale pink, appear along the stems and may be followed by small red or yellow fruits that add extra visual interest. Propagation is also \u003cstrong\u003eextremely easy\u003c\/strong\u003e: take a 10-15 cm stem segment, let it callous in open air for 2-3 days to prevent rot, then plant it in a slightly moist, well-draining substrate. Rooting occurs in 3 to 4 weeks — it is one of the easiest cacti to multiply, ideal for sharing with loved ones or densifying an existing hanging plant. When bringing a new Lepismium home, the guide for \u003ca href=\"\/en\/blogs\/conseils\/comment-bien-accueillir-une-nouvelle-plante\"\u003ewelcoming a new plant\u003c\/a\u003e explains the essential steps for the first weeks to ensure successful acclimation.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"lepismium-bolivianum-17cm-55cm","title":"Lepismium Bolivianum (Coral Cactus) - H55 cm | Pot Ø17 cm","description":"\u003csection class=\"product-content verdeia-product\" id=\"lepismium-bolivianum-17x55\"\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- INTRO --\u003e\n\u003cheader class=\"product-intro\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"product-highlights\"\u003e🌿 Tender green trailing stems • 🎨 Elegant and airy cascading habit • ☀️ Partial shade • 💧 Moderate watering • 🌱 Fast growth • 🐾 Non-toxic • 📏 H55 cm | Pot Ø17 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"product-description-lead\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLepismium bolivianum\u003c\/strong\u003e, also known as \u003cem\u003eCoral cactus\u003c\/em\u003e, is a spectacular epiphytic cactus native to the \u003cstrong\u003ehumid tropical forests of Bolivia and South America\u003c\/strong\u003e. Its slender, branched tender green stems gracefully cascade — a plant that surprises by belonging to the cactus family while looking nothing like desert cacti. It enjoys humidity, partial shade, and can reach over one meter in length when hanging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"product-description-lead\"\u003eNon-toxic, fast-growing, very easy to propagate. Discover it in our \u003ca href=\"\/en\/collections\/plantas-colgantes\"\u003etrailing plants collection\u003c\/a\u003e and in our \u003ca href=\"\/en\/collections\/cactus-suculentas\"\u003ecactus and succulents selection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/header\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- EXPOSURE \u0026 LOCATION --\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"product-section\" id=\"exposition-emplacement\" aria-labelledby=\"exposition-title\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"exposition-title\"\u003eExposure \u0026amp; location\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLepismium bolivianum\u003c\/strong\u003e is a tropical forest cactus — its needs are radically different from desert cacti. It prefers partial shade and humidity and fears direct sunlight that burns its delicate stems. Our \u003ca href=\"\/en\/blogs\/consejos\/plantas-colgantes-las-mejores-especies-para-embellecer-tu-interior\"\u003etrailing plants guide\u003c\/a\u003e helps you find the best spot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExposure:\u003c\/strong\u003e partial shade, bright indirect light — avoid direct sun.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIdeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e hanging near a north- or east-facing window, high shelf, bright bathroom.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 15 to 25 °C, without sudden changes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSubstrate:\u003c\/strong\u003e light, airy, and well-draining — epiphytic cactus or orchid potting mix with perlite.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"micro-tip\"\u003eWhen hanging, its trailing stems create a spectacular cascading effect that can reach over one meter in length — give it space to express itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- WATERING \u0026 CARE --\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"product-section\" id=\"arrosage-entretien\" aria-labelledby=\"arrosage-title\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"arrosage-title\"\u003eWatering \u0026amp; care\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike desert cacti, Lepismium should never stay too dry for too long — its epiphytic roots are adapted to moderate and regular humidity. It is very easy to propagate: cut a 10 cm stem and plant it directly in moist substrate. See our \u003ca href=\"\/en\/blogs\/consejos\/esquejes-plantas-guia-completo-multiplicacion\"\u003epropagation guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWatering:\u003c\/strong\u003e moderate — let the substrate surface dry between waterings, but not completely.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e about once a week in spring-summer, reduced in winter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDrainage:\u003c\/strong\u003e essential — use a pot with drainage holes and well-draining substrate.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHumidity:\u003c\/strong\u003e prefers 50 to 60% humidity — mist occasionally or place near other plants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFertilizer:\u003c\/strong\u003e once a month in spring-summer with liquid cactus fertilizer diluted by half.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePruning:\u003c\/strong\u003e pinch the tips to encourage branching and a bushier habit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"micro-tip\"\u003eDuring flowering — possible under optimal conditions — small white or pink flowers appear at the stem tips. A fleeting but fascinating display.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- DECOR IDEAS \u0026 PLANT COMBINATIONS --\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"product-section\" id=\"associations-deco\" aria-labelledby=\"deco-title\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"deco-title\"\u003eDecor ideas \u0026amp; plant combinations\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts tender green trailing stems create an elegant and airy vertical movement — a plant that naturally stands out when placed high, hanging, or on a high shelf.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIn combination:\u003c\/strong\u003e pair it with a \u003ca href=\"\/en\/products\/rhipsalis-coral-rojo-17cm-25cm\"\u003eRhipsalis Coral Red\u003c\/a\u003e or a \u003ca href=\"\/en\/products\/ceropegia-linearis-iris-cadena-de-corazones\"\u003eCeropegia String of Hearts\u003c\/a\u003e for a trailing plant composition with complementary stems and textures. Find all our \u003ca href=\"\/en\/collections\/plantas-colgantes-decorativas\"\u003edecorative trailing plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIdeal pot:\u003c\/strong\u003e a macramé hanger or a \u003ca href=\"\/en\/products\/hedera-helix-groen-maceta-colgante-blanca-17cm-25cm\"\u003ewhite hanging decorative pot\u003c\/a\u003e — the contrast between white and the tender green stems is particularly elegant.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAmbiance:\u003c\/strong\u003e perfect hanging near a window or on a high shelf — its stems can trail down to the floor under optimal conditions, creating a spectacular natural green curtain.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- VERDEIA TIPS --\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"product-section\" id=\"tips\" aria-labelledby=\"tips-title\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"tips-title\"\u003eVerdeia tips\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"verdeia-tips\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIt’s not a desert cactus\u003c\/strong\u003e — despite its name, Lepismium lives in humid tropical forests, clinging to tree branches. It needs indirect light, moderate humidity, and a light, draining substrate — not dry substrate and blazing full sun.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFast growth when hanging\u003c\/strong\u003e — placed high, its stems quickly lengthen under gravity and can reach 80 cm to 1 m in a few months in good conditions. Pinch the tips regularly to get a denser, bushier habit rather than a few long thin stems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSuper easy propagation\u003c\/strong\u003e — cut a 10 cm stem, let it dry for 24 hours in open air, then plant it directly in slightly moist substrate. Roots appear in 2 to 4 weeks. It’s one of the easiest plants to multiply in our catalog.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNon-toxic\u003c\/strong\u003e — Lepismium bolivianum poses no risk to cats, dogs, or children — a rarity among epiphytic cacti.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS --\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"product-section\" id=\"caracteristiques\" aria-labelledby=\"caract-title\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"caract-title\"\u003eTechnical specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"tech-details\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBotanical name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eLepismium bolivianum\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Coral cactus, Epiphytic cactus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cactaceae\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e humid tropical forests of Bolivia and South America\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePot diameter:\u003c\/strong\u003e 17 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApproximate height:\u003c\/strong\u003e 55 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdult size:\u003c\/strong\u003e trailing stems up to 100–150 cm long\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExposure:\u003c\/strong\u003e partial shade, bright indirect light\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWatering:\u003c\/strong\u003e moderate, surface slightly dry between waterings\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCare:\u003c\/strong\u003e easy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eToxicity to animals:\u003c\/strong\u003e non-toxic\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDecor style:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tropical \/ Bohemian \/ Urban jungle\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecial features:\u003c\/strong\u003e tender green trailing stems, spectacular cascading habit, epiphytic cactus, fast growth, very easy to propagate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"micro-tip\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eEach plant is unique: photos show a representative example. Stem length and foliage density naturally vary depending on growing conditions and season.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\n\u003c\/section\u003e","brand":"Everspring","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56698945175817,"sku":"12061","price":29.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0938\/1006\/5673\/files\/lepismium-bolivianum-cactus-corail-o17-cm-h55-cm-verdeia-1050051.jpg?v=1774514315"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0938\/1006\/5673\/collections\/lepismium-cactus-retombants-8246607.png?v=1778360146","url":"https:\/\/verdeia.eu\/en\/collections\/lepismio-1.oembed","provider":"Verdeia","version":"1.0","type":"link"}