How to Grow and Care for a Fishbone Cactus

13.02.2024 - 13:32 / gardenersworld.com

Fishbone cactus (Disocactus anguliger) is a true cactus native to tropical Mexico, where it grows epiphytically (without soil) from tree branches. Unlike most cacti, which are associated with dry, desert-like conditions, fishbone cactus thrives in humidity.

Also known as zig zag cactus, ricrac cactus, and the orchid cactus, Disocactus anguliger has fleshy dark green leaves with large, undulating tooths, like a zig zag. It makes an attractive, low maintenance house plant and is best grown in a hanging pot or placed on a shelf where its beautiful foliage can cascade down.

Grow fishbone cactus in bright, indirect light in a warm, humid room such as a bathroom or kitchen. Water regularly and feed annually in spring with a cactus fertiliser.

An understory plant adapted to tropical conditions, fishbone cactus thrives in heat, humidity and bright but indirect light. Grow fishbone cactus in a warm room, with winter temperatures no lower than 15ºC, near a north- or west-facing window. A bathroom or kitchen usually provides sufficient moisture, but in drier rooms you can mist the leaves regularly or use a humidifier set at 60 per cent humidity.

Fishbone cactus is an epiphyte in its natural environment, so absorbs nutrients and water from the surrounding atmosphere. It therefore thrives in well-drained but humus-rich soil. For best results mix perlite and orchid bark into peat-free cactus compost, and pot it up as you would any other house plant. Water well but always allow any excess water to fully drain from the pot.

Unlike desert cacti, fishbone cactus needs watering regularly, ideally when the top couple of