How To Grow And Care For A Zig Zag Cactus (Selenicereus Anthonyanus)

Grow and care for a zig zag Cactus (Selenicereus Anthonyanus) is easier than it looks.

This quirky epiphytic cactus—also called zigzag cactus, ric rac cactus, or fishbone cactus—thrives with bright, indirect light, airy soil, and the right watering rhythm.

Below you’ll find a practical guide to zig zag cactus care, plus simple tips on how to propagate a ric rac cactus and how to grow fishbone cactus into a full, cascading plant.

Meet The Zig Zag Plant

The so-called zig zag plant gets its name from the deeply notched, flat stems that drape elegantly from a hanging pot. In nature, it grows as an epiphyte on trees, so it prefers filtered light rather than harsh, all-day sun.

That’s why fish bone cactus care starts with choosing a bright window with no midday scorch.

Botanically, this species is known as Selenicereus anthonyanus.

Many gardeners first encounter it under common names like ric rac cactus or fishbone cactus, so you’ll see guides that mention ric rac cactus care or how to care for fishbone cactus—they’re all talking about this same beauty.

Expect fast, arching growth in warm seasons. With age and the right conditions, night-blooming flowers may appear—another reason people fall in love with the zigzag cactus.

Soil, Light, Water: The Core Of Ric Rac Cactus Plant Care

Because it is epiphytic, the plant hates heavy, compacted potting mixes. For reliable ric rac cactus plant care, blend a chunky, well-draining mix: equal parts high-quality cactus soil, orchid bark (or coco chips), and perlite.

This airy structure keeps roots oxygenated and prevents rot—critical for zig zag cactus health.

Light should be bright but indirect. East windows are ideal; south or west exposures work if you diffuse the sun with a sheer curtain. Water thoroughly, then allow the top third of the mix to dry before watering again.

This rhythm mirrors rainforest “wet-then-dry” cycles and underpins excellent zig zag cactus care.

Feed with a balanced, dilute fertilizer in spring and summer. Reduce water and fertilizer in cooler months. Following these basics ensures you know how to care for ric rac cactus without guesswork.

How To Grow Fishbone Cactus Bigger And Better

To master how to grow fishbone cactus, think in terms of airflow and support. Choose a hanging basket or a shelf edge so stems can cascade freely; crowded corners trap humidity and invite issues. Rotate the pot monthly to keep growth even.

Repot every 1–2 years in fresh, chunky mix to keep roots happy. If growth slows, check for root-bound conditions and refresh the medium. With these adjustments, how to care for fishbone cactus becomes a simple routine.

Temperature sweet spot: 18–27 °C (65–80 °F). It tolerates brief dips but dislikes frost. Humidity around 40–60% is perfect for sustained ric rac cactus care.

Propagation: From One Zigzag To Many

Curious about how to propagate a ric rac cactus? It’s surprisingly straightforward. Use clean shears to take a healthy segment, let the cut end callus for 24–48 hours, then set it into barely moist, airy mix. Keep in bright shade while roots form.

The same approach works if you’re wondering how to propagate fishbone cactus: shallowly plant the callused segment and avoid overwatering. Gentle bottom warmth and stable humidity speed rooting.

Once rooted, step up to a slightly larger pot. Consistent aftercare is the secret to long-term success with ric rac cactus care and propagation.

Troubleshooting & Seasonal Tips

Wrinkled or limp segments usually signal underwatering or a long dry spell. Mushy or blackened tissue points to excess moisture—improve drainage and spacing to keep zig zag plant problems at bay.

Pale growth suggests too little light; scorched patches mean too much direct sun. Adjust placement first before changing watering. Keeping these signals in mind refines your zig zag cactus care over time.

In spring, resume feeding and consider light pruning to shape fuller cascades. Healthy segments from pruning become perfect cuttings for how to propagate a ric rac cactus projects.

Watch The Full Video Tutorial

This article summarizes key ideas from a helpful YouTube tutorial by the original creator. For full context, demonstrations, and the creator’s personal tips, watch the source video below.

Note: We share highlights only—credit goes to the video’s author for the method and visuals.

Enjoy This Video Tutorial About Cactus Plant

Source: onlyplants

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