The fishbone cactus (Epiphyllum anguliger) is a forest cactus native to Mexico. Unlike the typical desert cactus most people picture, it grows on trees in humid rainforests, absorbing moisture from the air and its surroundings. Its stems are flat and wavy, with deep notches along the edges that look like the bones of a fish — which is exactly how it got its name. It is a popular houseplant, mostly because of how unusual and attractive those stems look.
In terms of care, it needs a bit more water than the average cactus but should never sit in soggy soil. It does best in indirect light, since in nature it grows under a canopy of trees rather than in direct sun. A well-draining soil mix works better than standard potting soil alone. During winter, it needs less water and cooler temperatures, which actually helps trigger blooming later in the year.
The flowers are large, white, and strongly scented. They open at night and are usually gone by morning, which surprises a lot of people who miss them entirely. In nature, moths and bats pollinate these flowers, which is why they bloom after dark. Indoors, the blooms can still appear if the plant gets the right conditions, particularly a slightly dry and cool period in winter.
It grows in a trailing way, with stems that can get quite long over time. This makes it well suited for a hanging basket or a high shelf. It is not a fast grower, but it is steady. Cuttings root easily in water or moist soil, so it is simple to propagate if you want more plants.
The fishbone cactus is a straightforward plant to keep. It does not need constant attention, it tolerates some neglect, and it looks interesting year-round even when it is not flowering. For anyone who wants something a little different from the usual houseplants, it is a solid choice.
How to Grow & Care for Fishbone Cactus
- Light: Place in bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch the stems.
- Watering: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
- Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity. Mist occasionally or place near a pebble tray with water.
- Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 15–25°C (60–77°F). Keep away from cold drafts and frost.
- Soil: Use a well-draining mix — a blend of regular potting soil with perlite or orchid bark works well.
- Pot & Drainage: Always use a pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot from waterlogging.
- Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during spring and summer. Skip feeding in winter.
- Repotting: Repot every 2–3 years or when rootbound. Spring is the best time to repot.
- Pruning: Trim overly long or damaged stems to encourage bushier growth and a tidier appearance.
- Propagation: Easily propagated from stem cuttings — let the cut end dry for a day before placing in moist soil or water.
- Encouraging Blooms: Expose the plant to cooler nighttime temperatures (around 10–15°C) in autumn to trigger flowering.
- Pests: Watch for mealybugs and spider mites. Treat promptly with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Hanging Baskets: Display in a hanging basket or elevated pot to allow the stems to trail naturally and show off their full beauty.