Fishbone Cactus (Epiphyllum anguliger)

Description

The Fishbone Cactus, also known as the Zig Zag Cactus or Ric Rac Cactus (E. anguliger), is a stunning epiphytic cactus native to Mexico. It’s a popular choice for indoor gardeners due to its unique foliage, fragrant flowers, and relatively easy care requirements.

Description:

• Leaves:
  • Shape: The star of the show! The Fishbone Cactus gets its name from its flat, zig-zagging, or fishbone-shaped stems. These stems are segmented and have slightly scalloped edges.
  • Color: The foliage is typically a bright to deep green, although some varieties may have a reddish tinge.
  • Texture: The stems feel smooth and leathery to the touch.
• Flowers: During the fall or winter, the Fishbone Cactus produces fragrant, white or pale yellow flowers with long, lemon-yellow to orange-brown outer petals. The flowers bloom at night and are quite showy, adding a delightful surprise to the foliage.
• Size: As an epiphytic cactus, it’s not a fast grower. It typically reaches a mature size of 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) long and 3-5 cm (1-2 inches) wide, with its cascading stems trailing downwards.

Origin and Habitat:

• In its natural habitat, the Fishbone Cactus grows as an epiphyte on trees in the understory of rainforests in Mexico.
• As an epiphyte, it gets moisture and nutrients from the air and surrounding debris, rather than from rooting directly in soil.

Care Tips:

• Light: Unlike many cacti, the Fishbone Cactus prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sun can scorch the leaves. A location near a north or east-facing window is ideal.
• Water: As an epiphyte, it enjoys moderate humidity and consistent moisture. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely, but also be careful not to overwater, which can lead to root rot.
• Soil: A well-draining, loose potting mix formulated for orchids or epiphytes is ideal. You can create your own mix by combining orchid bark, perlite, and sphagnum moss.
• Temperature: The Fishbone Cactus prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C). It cannot tolerate frost.
• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity is beneficial for this cactus. You can increase humidity around the plant using a humidifier, pebble tray, or grouping it with other moisture-loving plants.
• Fertilizer: During the growing season (spring and summer), you can feed the Fishbone Cactus with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer for orchids or epiphytes monthly.

Propagation:

The Fishbone Cactus can be easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem section with a few segments and allow it to callous over for a few days before planting it in a well-draining potting mix.

Additional Tips:

• The Fishbone Cactus is a relatively slow-growing plant. Be patient as it matures and develops its cascading form.
• Repot only when the plant outgrows its current container, typically every few years. Choose a pot with drainage holes that’s slightly larger than the root ball. Consider a hanging planter to showcase the cascading foliage.
• Mist the plant occasionally, especially during dry spells or winter months, to increase humidity.
• Keep an eye out for mealybugs or scale, which can be treated with insecticidal soap.

A Touch of the Rainforest for Your Home:

With its unique foliage, fragrant nighttime blooms, and preference for moderate moisture, the Fishbone Cactus brings a touch of the rainforest indoors. By following these simple care tips, you can enjoy this interesting and beautiful cactus for many years to come.