The coral cactus has taken the houseplant earth by storm with its finespun , get behind stems and ease of care . With its vining growth and lack of spines , it ’s the perfect low - maintenance accent for shelves , hang baskets , and terrariums likewise . But behind that innocent appearance , could this voguish plant be obscure a black arcanum ? Let ’s dive in and unveil the trueness about whether the darling coral cactus is friend or foe .
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About the Coral Cactus
Also known as the rice cactus , the coral cactus ( Rhipsalis cereuscula ) is a unique coinage native to the rainforests of South America . In its natural home ground , it acquire epiphytically , clinging to trees and vines with its dangling stanch that can trail up to 16 inch long . Its fragile , ramify shoot make a densely shaggy-coated appearance without a single back in sight .
This lack of spine is a key vantage – while most cacti mintage are cover in sharp needle , the coral cactus is completely spine - free , set no risk of injury to man or pets . Its resemblance is closer to a succulent than irregular cactus .
You’ll Never Believe the (Non-Toxic) Truth
Despite persistent rumor , the coral cactus itself is NOT poisonous and contains no toxic compound that would put children or fauna at risk . Its staunch only excrete water when damaged , unlike some toxic full cousin that ooze acrid milky sap .
However , the coral cactus does have some sinister flavour - alikes in the plant existence that have pull in it an unjust reputation . Several species like the Christmas cactus and certain spurges are mislabeled as “ coral cacti ” at garden centers , misleading owners about their potential perniciousness .
While the literal coral cactus is harmless , these fake can cause skin irritation , stomach upset , and other minor intoxication symptoms if ingested or touched . uncalled-for to say , you ’ll want to point light of any “ coral cactus ” that starts ooze white sap when cut !
Schlumbergera truncata
The Good(ish) News on Coral Cactus Safety
So what ’s the verdict ? Can singular kids and darling safely be around this trendy plant ? The good word is that the true Rhipsalis cereuscula poses basically no peril – even if pieces are nibble , no toxic effects should occur .
That said , it ’s still wise to keep the coral cactus out of reach as a care , since its trailing vine could tangle trivial hands or paws . For maximum safety machine and beneficial presentation , hang this beauty from the ceiling where it ’s visible but untouchable to unsupervised children or pets .
For boo owners , it ’s doubly important to contain the coral cactus , as a open - hang plantation owner could in earnest injure loose - flier . wench dung can also damage and soil the plant over time .
The (Non-Toxic) Cousins
If you ’re have a go at it the coral cactus vibration , you ’ll be palliate to know that its entire Rhipsalis genus of “ mistletoe cacti ” and trail aerophyte is count non - toxic . Some other harmless trailing relation to debate include :
Just Watch Out for These Toxic Impostors!
As mentioned , the self-aggrandizing risk of exposure with so - called “ coral cacti ” is the likely mix - up with legitimately poisonous works . Always double - check your new purchase against these toxic doppelgangers :
Some non - toxic look - alikes in the same families are safe , like the Easter cactus ( Rhipsalidopsis ) , leaf cacti ( Epiphyllum ) , and true non - toxic Rhipsalis coinage . But play it safe and verify your plant ’s personal identity before contribute it home .
In the end , the coral cactus itself is an innocent – yet voguish – improver to your indoor garden . As long as you ’re positive it ’s the real deal and not a poisonous phony , let those stunning vines cling destitute without fearfulness ! Just be sure to keep piffling one from getting too workforce - on with this beauty .
Schlumbergera truncata
Rhipsalis elliptica
