Epiphyllum Fishbone Cactus


Native to the warm, tropical rainforest understories of southern Mexico, Disocactus anguliger (frequently known as Epiphyllum anguliger, Fishbone Cactus, or Ric Rac Cactus) is a epiphytic jungle cactus. Evolutionarily adapted to grow attached to tree trunks and branches rather than arid desert soil, it features flat, trailing stems with deep, symmetrical zig-zag notches that resemble fish skeletons. In its wild habitat, these arching, spineless branches spread beneath the humid tree canopy to catch filtered sunlight, periodically producing large, fragrant, pale yellow to night-blooming flowers.

  • Safe for pets and children
  • Repot once every 2 years
  • Fertilize every every other week
  • Average water
  • Bright, indirect light

About Epiphyllum Fishbone Cactus

Origin

Hails straight from the warm, high-humidity evergreen rainforests of Mexico! As an epiphytic jungle cactus, it naturally grows nestled in tree crotches under shady tropical canopies.

Air Purifying

Absolutely! It’s a hardworking green diva that helps filter common household toxins from ambient air while boosting indoor oxygen levels for fresh jungle vibes.

Toxicity

100% pet-friendly! Completely non-toxic to curious cats, adventurous dogs, and humans, as certified by plant safety guidelines. You can trail it anywhere without worry!

Caring for Epiphyllum Fishbone Cactus

Watering

Water when the top 30–50% of the soil mix has dried out. Unlike desert cacti, this jungle beauty craves consistent, wrung-out sponge moisture—never let it sit in soggy swamp water, but avoid letting it shrivel up bone-dry!

Light and Placement

Bright, indirect light is its absolute happy zone! An east-facing window or a spot sheltered by a sheer curtain provides the perfect glow. Keep this amigo out of harsh direct afternoon sun rays to prevent its zig-zag stems from scorching or yellowing.

Nutrition

Treat it to a snack every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer using a balanced liquid houseplant or orchid fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Pause the meals during fall and winter when growth naturally slows down!

Repotting

Level up its home every 2–3 years in spring when its roots fill the pot! Choose a hanging planter or container with drainage holes and pack it with a super airy, fast-draining mix rich in orchid bark, perlite, and potting soil.

Pruning and Flowering

Trim off any unruly, leggy, or damaged stem segments using clean, sharp shears right at a joint to encourage bushier growth. Mature, happy plants reward you in late autumn with large, fragrant, cream-and-yellow night-blooming flowers!

Epiphyllum Fishbone Cactus SOS

Illness

Keep a sharp eye out for root rot from overwatering or dense, heavy soil that traps water! Watch out for mealybugs hiding in the stem grooves, and bump up ambient humidity if stem tips start turning brown or crisping!

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