Fishbone Cactus Blooms
Have you ever seen a cactus that looks like a fish skeleton? Meet the fishbone cactus, a unique houseplant that’s sure to catch your eye. This tropical beauty, native to Mexican rainforests, has zig-zag stems that resemble fishbones. But there’s more to this plant than its quirky shape.
Fishbone cactus typically blooms once a year, from late summer to fall, producing fragrant white flowers that open at night. You’ll be in for a treat when your plant decides to show off its nocturnal blossoms. These 4-8 inches blooms are a sight to behold, adding a touch of magic to your indoor garden.
Unlike many cacti, the fishbone cactus (also known as Epiphyllum anguliger or Disocactus anguliger) thrives in bright, indirect light and moderate humidity. This makes it a perfect choice for your home, even if you don’t have the sunniest spot. With proper care, it can bloom several times in late summer and fall, with beautiful night-blooming flowers.
Fishbone Cactus Basics
The fishbone cactus is a unique plant with eye-catching features. It’s easy to grow and makes a great addition to your home.
Distinctive Features
The fishbone cactus stands out with its unusual zigzag stems. These flat, long stems look like fish bones or rick-rack trim. They can grow up to 3 feet long and droop nicely in hanging baskets. Unlike desert cacti, this plant doesn’t have spines. It’s firm to touch and safe around pets and kids.
The real show-stopper is its flowers. They’re big, typically white, pale yellow, or pink, and smell great. These blooms open at night and close by morning. You might miss them if you’re not paying attention!
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
The fishbone cactus is known by the scientific names Disocactus anguliger and formerly as Epiphyllum anguliger. It belongs to the Cactaceae family. The change in scientific name is due to recent taxonomic reclassification.
This plant is an epiphytic cactus. That means it grows on other plants in nature, not in the ground. It’s native to Mexico and likes humid, shady spots.
The name “fishbone” comes from its leaf shape. “Anguliger” in its scientific name means “angle-bearing,” which fits its zigzag look.
The Beauty of Blooms
Fishbone cactus flowers are a sight to behold. These stunning blooms transform the unique zigzag stems into a dazzling display of color and fragrance.
Understanding Flowering Habits
You’ll find fishbone cactus blooms to be truly special. These flowers open at night, creating a magical experience. They’re large, measuring up to 6-8 inches across. The petals are delicate and slender, usually white or cream-colored, but may also be pale yellow near the base.
The blooms last for about one week, opening at night and wilting by morning. This short-lived beauty makes them even more precious. You might need to stay up late to catch a glimpse!
Flowering typically happens in late summer or early fall. But don’t worry if your plant doesn’t bloom right away. Young cacti may take a few years to start flowering.
To encourage blooming:
- Give your plant bright, indirect light
- Water sparingly
- Feed with a low-nitrogen fertilizer but high in phosphorus
Attracting Pollinators
Your fishbone cactus blooms play a vital role in nature. These night-flowering beauties are designed to attract specific pollinators.
Moths and bats are the main visitors to these flowers. The large, white, cream, yellow, or pink petals stand out in the darkness. This makes them easy for night-flying creatures to spot.
The flowers release a sweet fragrance after dark. This scent acts like a beacon, guiding pollinators from far away. As these animals feed on nectar, they transfer pollen between plants.
You can help your indoor cactus by hand-pollinating:
- Use a small brush
- Gently transfer pollen between flowers
- Do this at night when blooms are open
This mimics the work of natural pollinators, helping your plant produce seeds.
Fishbone Cactus as Decor
The fishbone cactus adds a unique touch to your home with its eye-catching zigzag stems. This easy-to-care-for plant works well in many indoor spots and pairs nicely with other houseplants.
Display Ideas
Try hanging your fishbone cactus in a basket near a window. Its long, flat stems will drape over the sides, creating a waterfall effect. You can also place it on a shelf or bookcase to add some green to your space.
For a modern look, put your cactus in a sleek white pot on a side table. The contrast between the smooth pot and the plant’s jagged edges looks great.
Don’t forget about bathrooms! The fishbone cactus likes humidity, so it can thrive there. Just make sure it gets enough light.
Companion Plants
Pair your fishbone cactus with other low-maintenance plants for a lush display. Pothos and spider plants are good choices. Their trailing vines will complement the cactus’s zigzag shape.
Succulents also make nice neighbors. Try echeverias or string of pearls for a mix of textures. These plants have similar care needs, so they’re easy to group together.
For a tropical vibe, add some colorful bromeliads near your fishbone cactus. Their bright flowers will pop against the cactus’s green stems.