Epiphyllum Anguliger (Fishbone Cactus/Ric Rac Cactus) is a beautiful, easy to grow epiphytic plant. Find out how to grow Fishbone cactus so that it thrives in your indoor garden. See care time stamps below.
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Today, weโre covering plant care for the Epiphyllum anguliger, a striking epiphytic cactus with deeply lobed, zigzag-shaped succulent foliage. It is commonly known as the fishbone cactus, zigzag cactus, or rickrack plant. The correct botanical name is Epiphyllum anguliger, and if youโre searching for information, thatโs the name to use.
This plant belongs to the orchid cactus genus and is native to the jungles of Mexico, where it grows as an epiphyte on tree branches. Epiphytes use other plants for support and develop aerial roots that attach to crevices and bark as they climb toward sunlight.
Aerial Roots
Mature Epiphyllum anguliger plants naturally produce aerial roots, which is a normal and healthy sign. These roots help the plant anchor itself in nature, and their presence indoors means youโre providing proper conditions.
Flowers
Mature plants often produce stunning white to pale yellow flowers with a wonderful nighttime fragrance. They typically bloom for about 24 hours, releasing scent primarily at nightโso watch for buds and enjoy the fragrance when it appears.
Lighting Requirements
Because this plant originates in rainforest understory, it thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate a few hours of gentle direct light. Ideal window placements include east, west, or south (with some filtering). Avoid dark areas and north-facing windows.
If new growth appears thin or narrow, it may be receiving too little light. In such cases, increase brightness or supplement with full-spectrum grow lights.
Watering Instructions
Unlike desert cacti, epiphytic cacti like this one should not dry out completely. Water when the top 2โ3 inches of soil are dry. Avoid soggy soil, but avoid letting the plant go bone dry for extended periods.
Always use warm or tepid water to avoid shocking roots. If you notice problems and suspect water quality, switch to distilled or reverse osmosis water.
More water is needed during spring and summer; less during cooler months.
Signs of underwatering:
Limp, wrinkled foliage
Signs of overwatering:
Brown leaf spotting (fungal)
Root or crown rot
Temperature & Humidity
This plant prefers:
60โ78ยฐF (15โ26ยฐC)
40โ60% humidity
It adapts well but dislikes cold temperatures. Increase humidity through pebble trays, grouping plants, or using a humidifier.
Soil & Repotting
Repot every 1โ2 years in spring. Use a well-draining mix that retains some moisture:
Peat moss or coco coir
Perlite or pumice
Optional: 25% orchid bark
Avoid oversized pots. Too much soil increases the risk of root rot.
Fertilizing
Feed during spring and summer using an organic liquid fertilizer. Avoid chemical fertilizers that can burn roots. Stop fertilizing in late September and resume in March.
Flowering Tips
Getting this plant to bloom indoors can be challenging. To encourage flowering:
Use proper lighting
Water appropriately
Feed regularly
Allow mild cooling periods (52โ57ยฐF) during late winter
Provide warmth again starting in February
Pruning & Propagation
Minimal pruning is needed unless a segment is damaged. Cut between the notches and allow the cut end to callous.
Propagation is easy through soil or water, though water-propagated cuttings must be transitioned carefully to soil.
Pests & Diseases
Generally low-maintenance, but possible issues include:
Mealybugs โ treat with 70% isopropyl alcohol
Fungus gnats โ let soil surface dry
Fungal leaf spots โ usually from overwatering
Conclusion
Epiphyllum anguliger is a beautiful, architectural, and rewarding houseplant. With proper care and patience, you may even enjoy its stunning scented blooms. Thanks for watching and supporting the channel. Please like, comment, subscribe, and check the notification bell for updates.
Epiphyllum Anguliger (Fishbone Cactus) FAQ
What is Epiphyllum anguliger?
It is an epiphytic cactus native to the jungles of Mexico, known for its zigzag or fishbone-shaped foliage.
What type of light does the fishbone cactus need?
The plant thrives in bright, indirect light and can tolerate a few hours of gentle direct sunlight.
How often should I water Epiphyllum anguliger?
Water when the top 2โ3 inches of soil are dry. Avoid letting the plant remain bone dry or overly wet.
Why does my plant have aerial roots?
Aerial roots are natural for this species and indicate healthy growth, as they help the plant attach to surfaces in nature.
What kind of soil is best?
Use a well-draining mix with peat or coco coir, perlite or pumice, and a small amount of orchid bark.
How do I get my fishbone cactus to bloom?
Provide bright indirect light, proper watering, and a cool period of 52โ57ยฐF in late winter to stimulate flowering.
Is the plant sensitive to water quality?
Yes. If issues arise, switch to distilled or reverse osmosis water to avoid chemical sensitivities.
What temperature and humidity does it prefer?
Keep it between 60โ78ยฐF with 40โ60% humidity for optimal health.
How often should I fertilize?
Fertilize during spring and summer with organic fertilizer, and stop feeding in late September.
What pests affect Epiphyllum anguliger?
The most common pests are mealybugs and fungus gnats, usually due to excess moisture.
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