Disocactus anguliger

fishbone cactus
Fishbone cactus is grown for its ric-rac stems and big cream-white flowers. Epiphyte does best in pots or mounted. Burgundy new shoots mature green, creating a fountain of stems.
Disocactus anguliger
height 8–12in
width 1–3ft
tolerates Cool Summers, Drought, Fog, Heat, Pots
water
needs
Moderate
water
info
The fishbone cactus prefers to go mostly dry between waterings during summer and totally dry during winter. They are forgiving of overwatering given a fast draining medium (of cactus mix or orchid bark) and warmth, especially during their summer growing season. If the medium isn’t fast draining enough, cold winter rains can lead to yellowing, brown spots on the branches or roots rotting. Keep an eye out for shriveling leaves, as this is a sign that your plant would like some water.
hardy
to
32F
exposure Full Shade – Part Shade
indoor
outdoor
In or Out
drainage In Pots: Cactus Mix, Orchid Bark
fertilizing Bloom
origin S Mexico
california
native
No
sunset
zones
16, 17, 20–24, H2

Sunset Zones Map

SUNSET ZONES MAP

Growing Notes

This epiphytic plant does well in tight spots, and hanging planters where the beautiful cascading branches and flowers can be enjoyed. As such they can remain rootbound for many years without issue.
Many growers claim that a dry winter rest and cool winter temperatures help encourage blooms, but we have seen plants grown exposed to winter rains bloom well in Central California.
Fertilize from spring through fall with a low nitrogen fertilizer to encourage blooms.
If grown in too little light a curious phenomenon happens to epiphyllums; instead of putting out flat wide smooth leaves they put out thin rounded spiny leaves. We have seen epiphyllums grow happily like this in shady spots, so this isn’t necessarily detrimental to their health, but if you’d like flowers and the big flat leaves they are known for you should move your plant into more light.
Typically we do not recommend planting this plant in the ground, as an epiphytic plant it prefers an exceptionally airy growth medium.
Tolerates more inland shade and more coastal sun.