The fishbone cactus, also known as Epiphyllum anguliger or the zig-zag cactus, looks like it jumped straight out of a cartoon! It’s named very appropriately, with a unique jetting-out pattern that looks like a zig-zag, or more visceral, a fishbone. If your home garden is feeling a little drab, this is the “wow” plant for you.
In the wild, fishbone cacti are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other plants, like trees, without taking nutrients from them. They absorb moisture and nutrients from the air and debris around them. Learn everything you need to know about caring for air plants with our help. And bonus, it’s a cactus so the maintenance is relatively low! Below, we’ll guide you through the essentials of caring for fishbone cacti, from cut flower care to growing them in containers.
Cut Flower Care
Fishbone cactus care is pivotal to bloom stunning, fragrant pink flowers, often in the late summer or early fall. If you’re lucky enough to have a flowering fishbone cactus and wish to enjoy these blooms as cut flowers, here’s how to do it right:
Unpacking the Blooms
Upon cutting the flowers, be sure to immediately place them in water to prevent dehydration. Trim the ends of the stems at a 45-degree angle to increase water absorption. Remove any lower leaves or thorns that might be submerged in water to avoid bacterial growth, which can shorten the lifespan of the flowers.
Storing Cut Flowers
To extend the life of your fishbone cactus blooms, keep them in a cool, shaded area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Replace the water every other day, trimming the stems slightly each time to maintain freshness. You can also add a floral preservative (a.k.a flower food) to the water to keep the blooms vibrant longer.
Reviving Wilted Blooms
Your flowers may begin to droop, don’t worry too much! Squeeze a little more life out of these beauties by cutting the stems again under water and placing them in fresh, cool water. Additionally, misting the petals lightly can help reinvigorate the flowers.
Caring for a Fishbone Cactus in Gardens
Fishbone cacti thrive in environments that mimic their natural habitats, which are the tropical rainforests of Mexico. Here’s how to best care for them in your garden.
When to Plant Fishbone Cactus Plants
The best time to plant fishbone cacti outdoors is in the spring, after the last frost has passed. This gives the cactus ample time to establish roots and grow before the cooler temperatures of fall set in.
Sunlight Needs for Fishbone Cacti
Fishbone cacti prefer bright, indirect light, making them ideal for shaded or partially shaded areas in your garden. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch their delicate stems. They do well when placed under trees or large shrubs that provide dappled sunlight.
When to Water Fishbone Cactus
Cacti don’t need water..right? Although fishbone cacti are cacti, they don’t require the same dry conditions as their desert relatives. Water them regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In hotter months, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler months, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
Common Pests and Diseases
Fishbone cactus care is generally hands-off, but they can fall prey to pests such as mealybugs and spider mites like most garden plants. To prevent infestations, regularly inspect your plants and treat any problems early with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be sure to let the soil dry between waterings as per mentioned.
Complementary Plants
Care for fishbone cactus can be grouped with many other complimentary tropical garden plants that also love the shade. These plants share similar watering and lighting needs, creating a harmonious environment.
- Ferns: Ferns thrive in similar shaded, humid environments, making them an excellent companion for fishbone cacti. Check out the bird’s nest fern care guide for advice on how to make a cohesive garden.
- Bromeliads: These tropical plants share the same light and moisture needs as fishbone cacti. Their vibrant, rosette-shaped leaves and colorful bracts add visual interest and texture to the garden.
- Calatheas: Known for their striking patterned leaves, calatheas prefer indirect light and moist soil, just like fishbone cacti. They make a stunning backdrop with their broad, colorful foliage.
- Orchids: Many orchids, especially epiphytic varieties like Phalaenopsis and Oncidium, thrive in the same conditions as fishbone cacti. Their elegant blooms can complement the cactus’s unique structure.
- Hostas: Hostas are shade-loving plants with large, textured leaves. They provide a lush, green contrast to the cactus’s slender stems and add fullness to the garden bed.
- Spider Plants (Chlorophytum comosum): Spider plants are adaptable and do well in partial shade, similar to fishbone cacti. Their arching, variegated leaves offer a playful contrast to the cactus’s rigid form.
Growing Fishbone Cactus Plants Indoors
Choosing the Right Container
When growing fishbone cacti in containers, it’s essential to choose a container that allows for good drainage. Clay pots are an excellent choice because they allow moisture to evaporate, reducing the risk of overwatering. Planter boxes and window planters can also work well, especially if they have drainage holes and are not too deep. The shallow roots of fishbone cacti prefer a wide, shallow pot over a deep one.
Watering in Containers
In containers, fishbone cacti may need to be watered more frequently than those planted in the ground, as the soil tends to dry out faster. However, be cautious of overwatering; always ensure that the pot has adequate drainage. Additionally, fertilize sparingly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
Varieties of the Fishbone Cactus
While Epiphyllum anguliger is the most well-known variety, there are a few other types of epiphytic cacti that share similar care needs and are often grouped under the fishbone cactus label. These include:
- Epiphyllum chrysocardium: Known for its larger, more robust stems and white blooms, this variety is also called the fern leaf cactus.
- Epiphyllum phyllanthus: This cactus has more slender, delicate stems and is prized for its night-blooming, fragrant flowers.
Native Locations & Symbolism
Fishbone cacti are native to the tropical rainforests of Mexico, where they grow in the shaded understory of trees. They thrive in warm, humid conditions, which makes them well-suited for similar environments in homes and gardens.
Their distinct wavy shape symbolizes adaptability and resilience throughout history, weaving back and forth through good times and bad. Its water-storing ability reflects the human tendency to hold onto emotions, encouraging us to let go and embrace renewal.
In many cultures, cacti represent spiritual protection and endurance, and the fishbone cactus is no exception. Their occasional vibrant yellow flowers stand as a symbol of hope, flourishing even in challenging conditions. It serves as a reminder of nature’s tenacity, akin to the enduring human spirit.
Fishbone Cactus Fun Facts
- The flowers of the fishbone cactus are known for their pleasant fragrance. These blooms often open at night and close by morning, adding a touch of mystery and allure.
- Despite their beauty, the flowers of a fishbone cactus are short-lived, typically lasting only one night. This fleeting bloom makes them even more special.
- Fishbone cacti are relatively easy to care for, making them a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. They don’t require much attention and can thrive in less-than-ideal conditions.
- While they naturally grow on trees in the wild, fishbone cacti can also be grown in containers, hanging baskets, or even mounted on wood or cork, adding a unique design element to your home.
- Like many houseplants, fishbone cacti can help purify the air by absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen, making them a healthy addition to indoor spaces.
- In some cases, fishbone cacti produce small, edible fruits that are similar in texture and taste to dragon fruit, another epiphytic cactus.
- Fishbone cacti are non-toxic to cats and dogs, making them a safe choice for households with pets. You can enjoy their beauty without worrying about potential harm to your furry friends.
Now that you know how to care for fishbone cactus, go make your whacky plant flourish! It will undoubtedly add an energetic touch to any space. Whether you’re growing it in your garden, in a container, or enjoying its rare flowers in a vase, this plant is sure to bring quirkiness and personality to your garden. Find all the lush greenery your home needs by browsing our plants for delivery today!
Shop All
