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Mistletoe Cactus
Rhipsalis cassutha · Cactaceae
How it looks
Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis cassutha) is a very distinctively shaped cactus with very slender, cylindrical fleshy branches that trail densely. It is nearly spineless, and small round white and pink fruit hangs from the branches, resembling mistletoe. Length 12-24 in (30-60 cm).
Mistletoe Cactus is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA. Its spines, however, can cause physical injury, so choose its spot with care.
Guide for parents
A safe cactus, but the spines can lodge in a mouth or paw, so placement matters. Curious young cats may pat at the spines and end up with a hurt nose or paw pad — keep it on a shelf that's hard to reach. If a spine gets stuck, pull it straight out with tweezers, and if it won't come out easily, have a vet remove it.
Details
- Scientific name
- Rhipsalis cassutha
- Common name
- Mistletoe Cactus
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Cactaceae
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