Native to the tropical rainforests of Mexico, this epiphytic cactus is also known as the zig-zag or ricrac cactus due to its distinctive, wavy stems that resemble a fishbone. In its natural habitat, the fishbone cactus grows on trees, drawing nutrients from the air and surrounding debris.
Its stunning, fragrant flowers bloom at night, adding an extra layer of allure to this low-maintenance plant. Here’s what you need to know about caring for this plant.
About the Fishbone Cactus
The fishbone cactus (Disocactus anguliger) is an epiphytic cactus native to the evergreen forests of Mexico. It has a smooth green cuticle (skin) and extensively branched stems. The primary stems are often woody, while the secondary stems are flat, succulent, 8-12 inches long, and 1-2 inches wide with deeply lobed, rectangular, or slightly rounded segments that resemble a fishbone.
White or pale yellow flowers bloom nocturnally, exuding a strong, sweet scent. They are 2-8 inches long and 2-3 inches wide. The fruit is 1-1.5 inches long, 0.80 inches in diameter, ovoid, and brownish, greenish, or yellowish with green, kiwi-like pulp and small black seeds. The tasty fruit is reminiscent of gooseberries.
As an epiphyte, the fishbone cactus grows on trees in its natural habitat, taking nutrients and moisture from the air and dropped detritus without harming the host tree. It was first distributed in Europe in 1846 by the Horticultural Society of London after obtaining a sample from the collector T. Hartweg.
Lighting Up Your Space
In its natural habitat, the fishbone cactus grows as an understory plant, receiving dappled, indirect light. When grown indoors, place it in a spot that receives several hours of bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the delicate leaves.
Soil & Potting
As an epiphyte, the fishbone cactus appreciates a well-draining, airy potting mix rich in organic matter. Create the ideal blend by combining equal parts commercial cactus/succulent soil, perlite, peat moss, and orchid bark mix.
Select a container with ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Watering & Humidity
Unlike desert cacti, the fishbone cactus enjoys regular watering and humid conditions. Water your plant when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Avoid using cold water, as it can shock the roots.
If your tap water is hard, allow it to sit for 24 hours before watering or use distilled water. Maintain humidity levels above 60% by misting the leaves or placing a humidity tray nearby.
Fertilizing & Pruning
Feed your fishbone cactus once in early spring with a liquid cactus/succulent fertilizer. Pruning is not necessary for the plant’s health, but you can trim it for aesthetic purposes.
Use clean, sharp pruners to remove any dead, discolored, or overgrown stems. The cuttings can be propagated to create new plants.
Propagation
To propagate your fishbone cactus, take stem cuttings and allow them to callus for a few days. Plant the cuttings in the same well-draining potting mix used for the parent plant. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and you’ll soon see new growth emerging.
With its low-maintenance nature and striking appearance, the fishbone cactus is an excellent choice for novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. By following these simple care guidelines, you’ll have a thriving jungle beauty that adds a touch of whimsy to your home.
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Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.