3 min readAs a houseplant mom to 60+ plants, I readily admit to having a few favorites. While I’ve never been enamored of the spiny types of cacti—all those spikes just don’t appeal to me—I’ve always loved an underrated, much less widely known cactus called ric rac cactus.
This charming cactus, also known as fishbone or zigzag cactus (Epiphyllum anguliger or Disocactus anguliger), has long, glossy green zigzagging foliage that makes it irresistible in hanging pots—and zero spines to poke your fingers!
If ric rac cactus receives enough light, you’ll also enjoy fragrant, night-blooming flowers after its third year of growth. These creamy-white blooms resemble orchids, giving it yet another common name of orchid cactus. Sadly, the blooms last only a few days, but they’re exquisite!
In its native habitat, this plant is an epiphytic cactus that lives in the crooks of tree branches like an air plant or orchid. What makes it even more unique is that its fleshy stems start out long and skinny and eventually form the characteristic rounded lobes. A related type of epiphytic cactus that also goes by the same common names has more angular, pointy lobes.
Fortunately, this particular species—Epiphyllum anguliger—is not toxic to pets, so it’s a fun and funky addition to households with fur babies. However, remember that any plant can cause GI upset if eaten in large enough quantities, so keep all houseplants away from your pets if they like to nosh on them.
Ahead, here’s why I adore this lesser-known cactus:
Common Name: Ric rac cactus, zigzag cactus, fishbone cactus, orchid cactus
Botanical Name: Epiphyllum anguliger
Plant Family: Cactaceae
Type of Plant: Rainforest epiphyte
Native Origin: Central and South America
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
Mature Size: 2 feet tall and wide
Toxic to pets: No
How to Grow Ric Rac Cactus
Ric rac cactus is an easy-to-grow plant with zero spines. It’s reminiscent of the various kinds of holiday cacti, and it can live for decades if given the right care. It will not tolerate freezing temperatures, so it’s best as a houseplant, or bring it indoors before temperatures fall into the 40s.
Light
Ric rac cactus needs bright, indirect light, as it receives dappled sunlight in the rainforest. The more light, the better to help it bloom. But do not give it direct sunlight, or the foliage will become sunburned.
Soil
Any regular potting mix is fine, though some people prefer to use a cacti mix. However, I haven’t found this completely necessary, as my plant has thrived for more than a decade in regular potting mix.
Water
The flat, zigzagging foliage retains water, so do not overwater this plant or it will develop root rot. It does like more water than other types of cacti, but you still should allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering again.
Fertilizer
You can fertilize with a regular houseplant fertilizer or a cactus-specific type. Fertilize once a month from spring to summer if using a water-soluble type.
How to Get Ric Rac Cactus to Bloom
To help them bloom, let them go a little drier in winter, from November to early December. Once you see buds, start watering again. During this growth period, the plant is creating next year’s blooms. Some people say they tend to bloom better when slightly root-bound, so only repot every four or five years.
Common Problems with Ric Rac Cactus
These plants are incredibly low-maintenance and rarely have pest issues. Occasionally, you may see mealybugs and scale. Also, avoid overwatering because they do not like to stay soggy.
Is Ric Rac Cactus Toxic to Pets?
Fortunately, this plant (Epiphyllum anguliger) is not toxic to pets. “There are no specifically identified toxic compounds in it, but the sap and foliage can cause mild irritation,” says Cristine Hayes, DVM, vice president of toxicology strategy at ASPCA Poison Control. “However, any plant material can cause digestive upset, even if considered non-toxic.”
However, pet parents should be aware that another plant in a different family—Euphorbia—has specific toxic compounds (diterpene esters) and is also sometimes called zigzag cactus as well, says Hayes. So, just to be on the safe side, make sure to check the botanical name of any plant you are purchasing if your pet likes to nibble.
