Rhipsalis paradoxa

Rhipsalis paradoxa, the Chain Cactus, produces long cascading stems built from repeating three-angled segments that appear to hook together like botanical chain links. Nearly spineless and adapted to life in trees, it develops into an intricate hanging specimen with a silhouette unlike any desert cactus. Small pale flowers may appear along the stems, followed by jewel-like red fruits that make the mature plant even more remarkable.

Give Chain Cactus bright, gentle light, such as filtered window light or a little direct morning sun, while protecting it from intense afternoon exposure. As an epiphytic forest cactus, it prefers an airy mix containing fine bark, potting soil, and perlite or pumice rather than an extremely dry mineral desert mix. Water thoroughly when the upper portion has dried, allowing excess water to drain but avoiding prolonged drought during active growth. Average Bay Area humidity is generally suitable, and moderate humidity can support healthier branching and aerial roots. Keep it warm, protect it from frost and cold drafts, feed lightly during spring and summer, and display it in a hanging basket or elevated planter where its chainlike stems can cascade without being crushed.