Selenicereus anthonynaus, a native of southern Mexico and sometimes known as the Ric Rac Cactus, Fishbone Cactus, or Zig-Zag Cactus, is a stunning and well-liked plant with zigzag or fishbone-appearing branches that resemble leaves. It also has lovely nocturnal flowers. This plant, which closely resembles the orchid cactus and is sometimes confused with it, is also known as epiphyllum anguilger. Selenicereus anthonynaus, the previous scientific name, is more frequently used. In Mexico, this shrub is prized for its mouthwatering edible fruits.
The unusual, waving stems of the ric rac cactus look like fish bones. A dense, leafy display is produced by trailing stems. This plant produces fragrant, nocturnal flowers that range in colour from white to pale yellow. When cultivated properly, flowers start to bloom in the autumn and develop into eatable green fruits with a taste akin to gooseberries.
Care Guide
Soil
To prevent problems brought on by overwatering, choose cacti-friendly soil. Any commercially available cactus or succulent should work well. To help create the porous, well-draining, airy soil that this cactus needs, you can add coco coir, fine moss, or perlite.
Fertilizer
The best time to fertilize this cactus is in the spring using diluted liquid fertilizers designed for cactuses or orchids, even if it doesn’t need much. To avoid problems, apply fertilizers carefully and watch out for over fertilizing. Additionally, fall and winter are not the best times to feed these cacti.
Watering
Although somewhat drought-resistant, this cactus prefers to receive water slightly more frequently than the normal cactus because it is native to the rainforest. The Ric Rac Cactus will benefit from a good soak, but you shouldn’t overwater it as this could cause root rot. Instead, when the top inch of soil has dried out, this plant needs to be rewatered. In the winter, watering might only need to be done every few weeks.
Light Requirements
Despite being categorized as a cactus, this native to the rainforest enjoys dappled light, as observed when it grows in its natural habitat beneath a thick canopy of tropical trees. Therefore, when grown inside, this cactus will benefit from strong indirect light, such as that from eastern or western windows. However, bear in mind that this plant will suffer damage from excessive direct sunshine.
Temperature & Humidity
In general, the Fishbone Cactus thrives when grown in typical indoor conditions of 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is essential that you should not permit your plant to develop at a temperature below 50 degrees Fahrenheit since this may result in significant harm. This cactus will benefit from being grown in environments with greater humidity because of its heritage in the rainforest. It will, nevertheless, stand typical household humidity levels. A humidifier, a pebble tray, misting, or placing plants near together can all help to improve humidity.
Maintenance & Pruning
The cactus doesn’t need to be pruned. On the other hand, unhealthy, dried-out, or discolored plant matter may be periodically removed.
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