The Ric Rac Cactus, scientifically known as Epiphyllum anguliger or Disocactus anguliger, is a captivating plant recognized for its distinctive zigzag stems. This unique foliage, reminiscent of a fishbone, gives it common names like Fishbone Cactus or Zigzag Cactus. As an epiphyte, it naturally grows on other plants in its native tropical rainforest environment, rather than in soil. Its striking appearance and relatively straightforward care have made it a favored houseplant.
Ric Rac Cactus Care Essentials
Light
The Ric Rac Cactus thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat where it grows beneath a dense tree canopy. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch its stems, leading to brown patches or a reddish tinge. Conversely, insufficient light can result in stunted growth. Placing the plant near an east or west-facing window, or using sheer curtains to diffuse strong light, provides ideal conditions.
Water
This tropical cactus prefers more moisture than desert varieties but dislikes soggy conditions. Allow the top two to three inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering leads to root rot, a common issue, while underwatering causes stems to wrinkle. Always use room-temperature water, and ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent pooling.
Soil
A well-draining, airy soil mix is essential to replicate the Ric Rac Cactus’s epiphytic nature. Standard potting mixes often retain too much moisture, which can cause root rot. An ideal blend includes components like orchid bark, perlite, and a cactus or succulent potting mix. This combination provides aeration for the roots and allows water to drain freely.
Temperature and Humidity
The Ric Rac Cactus prefers average household temperatures, ideally between 59°F and 78°F (15°C to 25°C). It cannot tolerate temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and requires indoor placement if outdoor temperatures drop. Originating from rainforests, it appreciates higher humidity, though it adapts to average household levels. Increase humidity through misting, using a pebble tray, or grouping plants.
Fertilizer
Fertilizing supports healthy growth and can encourage blooming. During the spring and summer growing season, feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer. For mature plants, a phosphorus-rich fertilizer can promote flower development. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to prevent over-fertilization. Avoid fertilizing during colder, dormant months.
Encouraging Blooms
Encouraging the Ric Rac Cactus to bloom requires specific environmental cues. Mature plants (at least three years old) are more likely to flower, typically producing fragrant, white or pink, orchid-like blooms that open at night, often in the fall.
Providing a cool resting period during winter is beneficial for bud formation. During this dormant phase, reduce watering and ensure nighttime temperatures are cooler, ideally around 50-57°F (10-14°C). This temperature drop, combined with drier soil, helps to season the plant for flowering. As spring approaches and temperatures rise, gradually increase watering and move the plant to a warmer location, ensuring it receives bright, indirect light. Consistent fertilization during the growing season also contributes to the plant’s energy reserves for blooming.
Repotting Your Ric Rac Cactus
Repotting a Ric Rac Cactus is generally needed when the plant becomes root-bound or the soil mix degrades, typically every two to three years. Signs that indicate it’s time to repot include roots emerging from drainage holes or water draining too quickly due to compacted soil. This plant prefers to be somewhat snug in its pot, so select a new container that is only one to two inches larger in diameter.
When repotting, choose an unglazed pot, such as terracotta, which promotes evaporation and helps prevent waterlogging. Gently remove the plant from its old pot and inspect the roots. Place a screen over the drainage hole of the new pot, then add fresh, well-draining soil. Position the plant in the center, backfill, and water thoroughly to settle the mix around the roots.
Propagating Ric Rac Cactus
Propagating the Ric Rac Cactus is readily achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem segment, ideally four to six inches long, and make a clean cut just below a node. After taking the cutting, allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for a few days to two weeks; this step helps prevent rot when planted.
Once the cutting has callused, it can be planted directly into a well-draining potting mix. Insert the callused end into the soil, ensuring the orientation is correct, and gently firm the soil around it for support. You can also dip the end in rooting hormone powder to encourage faster root development. Keep the soil lightly moist and provide bright, indirect light as the cutting establishes roots, which typically occurs within a few weeks.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The Ric Rac Cactus is generally resilient, but certain issues can arise from improper care. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering, while brown leaves can signal either excessive water or too much direct sunlight. If stems appear wrinkly, it usually means the plant is underwatered and needs a thorough drink.
Root rot is a frequent problem caused by consistently wet soil and poor drainage; using a well-draining mix and ensuring pots have drainage holes helps prevent this condition. Pests such as mealybugs and spider mites can occasionally affect the plant. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can manage these infestations.