How to Grow and Care for Ric Rac Cactus

The Ric Rac Cactus, Selenicereus anthonyanus, is a visually striking plant also known as the Fishbone or Zig Zag Cactus. These nicknames come from its long, flat stems with deeply lobed edges that create a unique, repeating pattern. This plant is an epiphyte, meaning in its native southern Mexico habitat, it grows on other trees instead of in the ground. Understanding its jungle origins is key to providing the right care and helping it thrive indoors.

Ric Rac Cactus Care Guide

Light

The Ric Rac Cactus thrives in bright, indirect light, which mimics the dappled sunlight of its native environment. An east-facing window that receives gentle morning sun is a good location. Too much direct, harsh sunlight can scorch the stems, causing damage.

Water

The watering needs of a Ric Rac Cactus differ from those of desert cacti, as it appreciates more moisture. A reliable method is to water the plant thoroughly, allowing excess to drain from the pot, and then wait for the top few inches of soil to dry out before watering again. Wrinkling or puckering stems are a good indicator that the plant is thirsty. During the fall and winter, you should reduce watering frequency.

Soil

A well-draining potting mix is required to prevent water from suffocating the roots. A pre-made cactus or succulent mix works well, and its drainage can be further improved by adding materials like perlite or orchid bark. This type of loose, airy medium allows water to flow through while providing the roots with the aeration they need.

Temperature and Humidity

This cactus prefers warm and humid conditions that mirror its native jungle habitat. It is comfortable in household temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). The plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from cold drafts. While it adapts to average household humidity, it benefits from increased moisture provided by occasional misting or a nearby humidifier.

Fertilizer

During its growing season in spring and summer, the Ric Rac Cactus benefits from regular feeding. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, can be applied every four to six weeks. This provides the nutrients to support its growth. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows.

Encouraging Blooms

A mature plant, at least two or three years old, is more likely to bloom. To encourage flowering, the plant needs a rest period during the cooler months. This involves reducing watering and exposing it to slightly cooler nighttime temperatures, around 60°F (15°C). Keeping the plant slightly root-bound in its pot can also stimulate blooming. Once tiny buds appear along the stems, do not move or rotate the plant, as any disturbance can cause the buds to drop. The reward is large, fragrant, nocturnal flowers in shades of pink, white, or pale yellow that bloom for a single night.

Propagation Methods

Propagating with stem cuttings is best done during the spring or summer growing season. Select a healthy, mature stem and use a clean knife to cut a section a few inches long. Allow the cut end to dry and form a callus over a few days, as this step helps prevent the cutting from rotting when planted.

Once the cut end has callused over, the cutting is ready for planting. You can insert the callused end into a pot with a well-draining cactus mix. Another method is to place the cutting in a vase of water until roots develop. For soil propagation, water lightly and keep the soil slightly moist until new growth appears.

Common Issues and Solutions

Yellowing or mushy stems are classic signs of overwatering and potential root rot. This occurs when the soil is kept too wet or does not drain properly. To resolve this, allow the soil to dry out more between waterings and ensure the pot has drainage holes. If root rot is advanced, you may need to trim away affected roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.

Conversely, shriveled or limp stems often indicate the plant is underwatered and dehydrated. Increasing the watering frequency should help the stems plump back up.

This plant can also attract common houseplant pests like mealybugs and scale, which appear as small white deposits or brown bumps on the stems. These can often be managed by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.