The Whale Tail Cactus (Epiphyllum anguliger) is a captivating houseplant known for its distinctive appearance. It’s also called Fishbone Cactus or Zigzag Cactus due to its uniquely shaped, flattened, wavy stems that resemble a whale’s tail or a fish’s backbone. This plant is an epiphyte, meaning it naturally grows on other plants, like trees, absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air and decaying organic matter.
Understanding Your Whale Tail Cactus
The Whale Tail Cactus has striking physical characteristics. Its deeply lobed, flat, succulent stems are typically 8 to 12 inches long and 1 to 2 inches wide, with a bright green, glossy surface. Though commonly called a cactus, it is an epiphytic succulent belonging to the Epiphyllum genus, often known as an “orchid cactus.”
A remarkable feature is its large, fragrant, nocturnal flowers, typically white or creamy and up to 8 inches long. These blooms open at night, releasing a sweet scent before wilting within a day. It originates from Mexico’s tropical rainforests, thriving under tree canopies in humid, shaded conditions.
Whale Tail Cactus Care
Light
The Whale Tail Cactus thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat beneath a forest canopy. Direct, harsh sunlight can scorch its stems, leading to yellowing or browning. An east or north-facing window provides ideal indoor light. Outdoors, a spot with partial shade or morning sun and afternoon shade is best.
Watering
Proper watering is important. Unlike desert cacti, it prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until drainage occurs, then allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry completely before rewatering. Watering frequency adjusts seasonally; more is needed during spring and summer, and less in fall and winter. Using room temperature water is advisable, as cold water can shock the plant’s roots.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, airy potting mix is important for the Whale Tail Cactus, mimicking its epiphytic nature. Combine potting soil with amendments like perlite, orchid bark, or coarse sand. This mix allows for good drainage while retaining some moisture, preventing root rot. Always use pots with drainage holes. Repotting every 1-2 years in spring refreshes the soil and provides room for growth.
Temperature and Humidity
The Whale Tail Cactus prefers warm temperatures, ideally 65-80°F (18-27°C). It is not frost-tolerant and needs protection below 50°F (10°C). Higher humidity levels, around 60% or more, are beneficial. Indoors, achieve this by misting regularly, using a pebble tray, or placing it near a humidifier.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing supports growth and encourages blooming. During its active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks. A fertilizer lower in nitrogen and higher in phosphorus can promote flower production. Reduce or stop fertilization during fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Propagating Whale Tail Cactus
Propagating the Whale Tail Cactus is straightforward, primarily through stem cuttings. Select a healthy 4-6 inch stem section and use a clean, sharp knife or scissors. Allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for a few days to prevent rot.
Plant the callused cutting about 1 inch deep in a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Keep the soil slightly moist until roots form, usually within a few weeks. Cuttings can also be rooted in water before transplanting to soil.
Common Issues and Solutions
Common issues often stem from improper care. Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering, which can lead to root rot; allow soil to dry completely between waterings and ensure proper drainage. Shriveling stems signal underwatering; increase watering frequency while still allowing the soil to dry.
A lack of blooms can be due to insufficient light, improper watering, or not meeting cool winter rest requirements. Providing bright, indirect light, consistent watering during the growing season, and a cooler winter period (50-60°F / 10-16°C) can encourage flowering. Pests like mealybugs or spider mites can be managed by wiping them off with rubbing alcohol or treating with insecticidal soap or neem oil.