Fishbone Cactus
Epiphyllum anguliger
Fishbone Cactus is an epiphytic cactus from Mexican rainforests with flat, deeply lobed stems that look like a fish skeleton. It wants more moisture than desert cacti and, in good conditions, opens fragrant cream flowers at night. A hanging planter suits its trailing habit.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Easy
Humidity
Moderate
Pet Friendly
The Fishbone Cactus is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, making it an excellent choice for pet owners.
Full care guide
Fishbone Cactus Care
Grow Epiphyllum anguliger (Fishbone Cactus) like a rainforest epiphyte: bright filtered light, a chunky mix, steady moisture, and a cool winter rest for night blooms.
Read the guideCare Notes
Full guide →Light
Place your plant in bright, filtered light. A little morning sun is fine; hot afternoon rays can bleach or scorch the stems. A north or east window often works well.
Water
Water thoroughly when the top two inches of soil have dried. Use a planter with excellent drainage. Cut watering way back in winter.
Soil
Use a chunky mix of orchid bark, perlite, and peat-based potting soil. These plants prefer to be slightly root-bound.
Humidity & Temperature
Keep temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C-27°C) with moderate humidity. Mist or use a pebble tray if the air is dry. A cooler winter room around 55°F can help encourage spring blooms.
Common Issues
Wrinkled stems usually mean underwatering or low humidity. Yellow, mushy stems point to overwatering. Check the deep stem notches for mealybugs.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) or bloom booster (low nitrogen) in early spring
Soil
Well-draining, porous orchid-style mix with organic matter, bark, and perlite.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
2 to 3 feet in length
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Stem cuttings (allow to callous for a few days before planting in soil or water).
Common Varieties
Often sold as Ric Rac Cactus; sometimes confused with Selenicereus anthonyanus which has hairier fruit and redder flowers.
Flat bright green stems with deep alternating notches that form a zigzag fishbone pattern.