The Ric-Rac, or Fishbone Cactus (Disocactus anguliger), is a real showstopper with its vibrant golden-orange outer petals and creamy white inner bloom. Hailing from the misty forests of Mexico, this charming epiphytic cactus loves to hang out in indoor pots, treating you to multiple blooms throughout the year with just a little TLC.
Care Guide:
- Light: It thrives in bright, indirect light and can handle some morning or evening sun, but steer clear of those harsh midday rays.
- Watering: Give it a drink when the top 40–50% of the soil feels dry. Cut back on watering during the winter months.
- Soil: Opt for a well-draining mix—think 40% coco coir, 30% orchid bark, and 20% perlite.
- Fertilizing: Feed it monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. For those beautiful blooms, a bloom booster (10-30-20) works wonders.
- Temperature: This cactus prefers a cozy range of 16–28°C, so keep it away from anything below 10°C.
- Humidity: It loves moderate to high humidity, ideally 50% or more.
- Pot: A slightly root-bound pot can encourage more blooms, just make sure it has good drainage.
Special Features:
- Leaves: Its unique "zig-zag" or fishbone-like leaves are a real conversation starter.
- Flowers: Expect colorful blooms in white, yellow, and orange that last 1–2 days, usually blooming in the evening or at night.
- Fragrance: Some varieties even have a lovely fragrance, adding to their charm.
- Thorns: With low thorn presence, it’s a safe choice for indoor spaces.
Best Location: Position it near a south or east-facing window for the best light. If needed, you can supplement with grow lights for about 10–12 hours.
Propagation: To propagate, take a 10–15 cm stem cutting and let it dry for 2–3 days.
Plant it in a well-draining mix (like perlite/pumice combined with coco coir) and keep it in bright, indirect light. You should see roots developing in about 2–6 weeks.
Common Problems:
- Wilted leaves: This could be a sign of under-watering or root rot, so it’s a good idea to check those moisture levels.
- Brown spots: These often indicate that your plant is getting too much direct sunlight or fertilizer.
- Pests: If you spot aphids or mealybugs, you can easily wipe them off with swabs dipped in alcohol.
Conclusion: The Ric-Rac Cactus is not just a pretty face; it’s a low-maintenance gem that can bloom all year long with the right care. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned gardener, this plant loves indirect light, requires minimal watering, and rewards you with delightful, fragrant flowers. Bring this stunning addition into your indoor garden for a vibrant touch of color and elegance.