February Plant of the Month: Epiphyllum Angulier (Fishbone cactus)

February Plant of the Month – Epiphyllum Anguliger / Fishbone Cactus

Our plant of the month is the fantastic Fishbone Cactus, also referred to as the Rik Rak cactus, Zig Zag catus or disocactus anguliger. The zig zag shaped stems of this epiphytic cactus are truly unique and eye catching. Fishbone cactus look especially attractive as a hanging plant in a basket or on a shelf.

Fishbone cactus are very easy to grow in our climate in Costa Rica. They will grow most quickly and attractively when given more light, but can tolerate semi shade outdoors and medium indirect indoor light. We recommend a location with at least 3-4 hours of direct morning or afternoon light outdoors, and a spot close to a window indoors. I can imagine the fishbone might not be so forgiving for our followers in North America and Europe.

Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering and use a fast draining potting mix. We use a standard cactus soil mix that contains roughly 30% organic material.