The Fishbone Cactus ‘Disocactus Anguliger’ (Epiphyllum Anguliger)

This is an epiphytic cactus native to Mexico and the United States. Unlike other cacti that prefer direct sunlight and low humidity, this one can thrive without direct sunlight and even in high-humidity places. The fishbone cactus is unique because it grows in rainforests, thus the adaptation to indirect light and humidity. Its common names include fishbone cactus, zig-zag cactus, and rirac cactus due to its appearance. It has an angular, toothed stem, thus the name fishbone and zig-zag cactus. It is fantastic on a planter and a hanging pot. The cactus is an epiphyte that grows on top of other natural plants.

Description 

It can reach up to three feet if the conditions are right. However, most don’t grow beyond six inches. This cactus has a flattened stem, unlike other cacti with bulbous stems. The different adaptation is because, unlike desert plants, it doesn’t need the structure to store water.

After all, its environment has enough of it. The flattened stem allows it to capture the sun’s rays more easily because its environment doesn’t have as much of it as the desert where other cacti grow. The cactus is not toxic and, therefore, safe for children and pets even when ingested.

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Care

It requires bright light to grow healthy, but it doesn’t have to be direct sunlight. Indirect sunlight is preferred for this plant because it is rather delicate compared to other cacti. If you grow it indoors, keep it in a location where it will receive bright indirect sunlight for at least six hours daily. The eastern window is an ideal location to facilitate this.

It is an epiphyte, meaning it can survive in a place with little soil depth. The soil, whether minor or much, should be well-drained and sired with substantial organic matter. You can get this soil by mixing one part each of commercial cactus mix, perlite, orchid back mix, and peat moss on a ratio of 1:1:1:1. It allows water to seep through, and the roots are well adapted for it.

Water the plant regularly. You should drink it every time the top three inches of the soil are dry and give it some more. Unlike desert cactus, which can survive extremely dry conditions, this epiphyte requires regular watering. It isn’t advisable to give this plant water when it is too cold because the cold water shocks it. Also, it is sensitive to the chemicals used to purify municipal water. Allow it to rest for 24 hours after drawing it from the tap to allow for dissipation of the chemicals. Watering it using distilled water is also recommended.

The ideal temperature for the fishbone cactus is 60-78oF (15-25oC) with humidity at around 60%. Feed it only once yearly at the beginning of spring with a liquid cactus fertilizer. The potting mix with the contents mentioned above is sufficient to keep the plant healthy.

DO YOU KNOW? Caring (propagating, pruning/trimming, beheading, watering, …) is a set of skills that is applicable to almost every succulent. Read the in-depth succulent care guide right here >>

Propagation, Repotting Pest & Diseases Control 

This plant is easy to propagate using stem cuttings. You can obtain the cuttings quickly since it branches at the base. Propagate it in spring at the beginning of the growing season. The roots don’t grow too deep, so you can repot any time it gets root bound. Mealybugs, scales, red spiders, and aphids can attack it but not too much. Use organic pesticides to treat its infestation.

Final Thought

It is a bit fussier than other cacti, especially on watering, but its beauty is worth the effort. The other aspects of its care are standard cactus care, so it isn’t so bad.

Read other articles in the Disocactus genus:

ABOUT ME

Richard Miller

Salute everyone. It's Richard, the author of this Succulent & Xeriscaping blog. I am a traveler and a nature lover looking for a connection with the wild green. In my journey, I found a love for succulents and xeriscaping. What attracts me is the long-lasting & unique beauty of every plant I have the chance to see with my own eyes. Welcome to my little blog and let's enjoy a good time together!

Contact me: richard.succulentcity@gmail.com