Fishbone Cactus

Plant name: Fishbone Cactus

Scientific name: Disocactus anguliger (syn. Epiphyllum anguliger)

Plant description:
Fishbone Cactus is an epiphytic cactus valued for its deeply lobed, zigzag stems and trailing growth habit. Unlike desert cacti, this species naturally grows attached to trees in humid forests, where it receives filtered light and consistent moisture. Its flattened, architectural stems create a cascading effect that makes it especially suited to hanging baskets and elevated containers.

Flower description:
Mature plants produce fragrant, night-blooming flowers that open dramatically and last for a short period. Blooms are typically creamy white to pale yellow with long, narrow petals arranged in layered form. Flowering generally occurs on established plants grown in stable, bright conditions.

Leaf description:
Fishbone Cactus does not produce traditional leaves. Instead, it develops flattened, succulent stems with pronounced, alternating lobes that resemble a fish skeleton. Stems are medium to deep green and slightly glossy, forming long, arching segments that can trail several feet.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Evergreen in suitable climates and when grown indoors.

USDA grow zones:
USDA Zones 10–11 outdoors; widely grown as a houseplant or greenhouse specimen in cooler regions.

Mature height and width:
Trailing stems can reach 2–4 feet long, with plants typically spreading 2–3 feet wide depending on container size and care.

Landscape uses:
Ideal for hanging baskets, indoor plant collections, shaded patios, and tropical-style plantings. Its distinctive stem pattern adds texture and movement to vertical displays and pairs well with broad-leaf foliage plants.

Native range:
Native to Mexico, where it grows as an epiphyte in forested environments.

Sun exposure:
Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct, intense sun can scorch stems, while insufficient light may reduce flowering and cause weak growth. Filtered light similar to forest canopy conditions supports strong development.

Water requirements:
Requires well-drained, organic-rich soil and moderate watering. Allow the upper layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid prolonged drought or consistently saturated soil. Moderate humidity supports healthy stem growth.

Pests and problems:
May attract mealybugs, scale, or spider mites, particularly in dry indoor air. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Good airflow and proper drainage reduce the risk of fungal issues.

Heat and sun tolerance: Cold tolerance:
Performs well in warm, humid conditions. Sensitive to prolonged exposure to intense direct sun and freezing temperatures. Temperatures below 40°F can cause stem damage.

Growing tips:
Use a loose, well-draining potting mix formulated for epiphytic cacti or orchids. Provide consistent, indirect light and moderate humidity to encourage steady growth and flowering on mature plants. Allow stems to trail naturally to highlight their zigzag structure. Light feeding during active growth supports healthy, firm stems without excessive softness.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

, Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.