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Plant Profiles / Fishbone cactus

Photos: Wikimedia Commons

Hanging plantsCactiIndoorFloweringPet friendly

Fishbone cactus

Selenicereus anguliger (formerly Epiphyllum anguliger) · Zig-zag cactus, ric rac cactus

A trailing jungle cactus with flat, zig-zag stems like fish bones. Fragrant, white night-blooming flowers in autumn.

Bright indirectLight

WeeklyWater

EasyCare level

Care at a glance

Light

Bright indirect

ShadeFull sun

Bright, filtered light.

Water

Weekly

DryWet

Water when the top 2–3 cm dries.

Humidity

Moderate

LowHigh

Likes some humidity.

Temperature

12–30°C (54–86°F)

CoolWarm

Keep above 10°C (50°F).

Growth

Moderate, trailing

SlowFast

Stems trail to 1 m.

Soil

Chunky, airy

LeanRich

Orchid bark and cactus mix.

Fertiliser

Monthly in summer

RarelyOften

Diluted fertiliser.

Pet safety

Non-toxic

SafeToxic

Non-toxic to pets.

About this plant

Native to the forests of Mexico, the fishbone cactus grows on trees. Its unusual stems make it a favourite for hanging pots, and it's easy in bright, indirect light.

Best spots

Hanging baskets, shelves, bathrooms and bright rooms.

Plant facts

Botanical name	Selenicereus anguliger (formerly Epiphyllum anguliger)
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Mexico
Plant type	Epiphytic cactus
Mature size	Trails to 1 m
Growth rate	Moderate
Spines	None
Flowers	Fragrant white, night-blooming
Toxicity	Non-toxic to pets
Propagation	Stem cuttings