Epiphyllum anguliger Fishbone (4")

Epiphyllum Fishbone

also called Ric Rac Cactus or Zig Zag Cactus

Disocactus anguliger (formerly Epiphyllum anguliger)

Care Difficulty
Easy. A low-maintenance tropical cactus that is perfect for beginners.

Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light. It appreciates a few hours of gentle morning sun but should be protected from hot afternoon sun. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the stems.

Water Requirements
Water when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feels dry. Unlike desert cacti, Fishbone Cactus enjoys slightly more moisture but should never sit in soggy soil. Water less frequently during winter.

Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity (50 to 70%) but adapts well to average household conditions.

Pet Safety
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Growth Speed
Moderate to fast. Produces long, cascading stems during the growing season.

Expected Mature Size

• Height: 6 to 12 inches
• Trail Length: 24 to 48 inches or longer

Pot Size
Repot every 2 to 3 years or when roots become crowded. Prefers being slightly root-bound.

Where it Grows Best
Indoors in bright, indirect light. Excellent in hanging baskets, elevated planters, or on shelves where the distinctive zigzag stems can trail freely.

Perfect for…

• Beginner plant owners
• Hanging baskets
• Pet-friendly homes
• Tropical plant collections
• Modern home décor
• Unique statement plants

Common Mistakes

• Overwatering, leading to root rot.
• Treating it like a desert cactus by allowing it to stay dry for too long.
• Growing it in very low light.
• Using heavy potting soil with poor drainage.
• Placing it in direct afternoon sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called Fishbone Cactus?
Its flat, deeply lobed stems resemble the shape of a fish skeleton, giving the plant its common name.

Is it a true cactus?
Yes, but unlike desert cacti, it is an epiphytic cactus that naturally grows on trees in tropical rainforests, where it receives filtered light and regular moisture.

Will it flower indoors?
Yes. Mature plants can produce large, fragrant white flowers, usually in late summer or fall. Flowering is more likely when the plant receives bright light and experiences slightly cooler nighttime temperatures in autumn.

How often should I fertilize it?
Feed once a month during spring and summer with a balanced water-soluble houseplant fertilizer at half strength. Do not fertilize during the winter.

Can I propagate Fishbone Cactus?
Yes. Stem cuttings root easily. Allow the cut end to dry for a day or two before planting it in a well-draining potting mix.

Why are the stems becoming wrinkled?
Wrinkled stems usually indicate the plant is too dry and needs watering. If the soil is already wet, wrinkling may instead indicate root rot from overwatering.

Shipping Guarantee

Every Fishbone Cactus is carefully inspected, watered, and securely packaged before shipping. Protective packaging helps prevent damage to the delicate trailing stems so your plant arrives healthy and ready to grow.

Healthy Arrival Guarantee

We stand behind the quality of our plants. If your Fishbone Cactus arrives with significant shipping damage or in poor condition, contact us within 24 hours of delivery with clear photos of the plant and its packaging. We will gladly work with you to provide an appropriate replacement or store credit in accordance with our Healthy Arrival Guarantee policy.