Fishbone Cactus

Fishbone Cactus Care

The fishbone cactus is a low-maintenance plant that grows well indoors as a houseplant. It thrives in bright, indirect light and enjoys moist, humid conditions. Native to the jungles of Mexico where it grows from tree branches, the fishbone cactus is epiphytic, meaning it can also grow in low soil conditions if necessary.

Light

In its natural environment, the fishbone cactus grows as an understory plant and receives dappled, indirect light. When grown indoors, a location that receives several hours of bright indirect light is perfect for the fishbone cactus. 

Soil

As an epiphyte, the fishbone cactus appreciates a potting mix that is well-drained, airy, and rich in organic matter. Combine one part commercial cactus/succulent soil, one part perlite, one part peat moss, and one part orchid bark mix to create the ideal mixture for the fishbone cactus.

Water

In contrast to desert cacti, the fishbone cactus appreciates regular watering. As a general rule, you should water your cactus once the top 2-3 inches of the soil have dried out. It is important to avoid watering your fishbone cactus with water that is too cold as it can shock the roots. Fishbone cacti are also sensitive to chemicals in municipal water so if your water is hard you should allow it to sit out for 24 hours before watering your cactus, or use distilled water.

Temperature and Humidity

Native to jungle environments, the fishbone cactus thrives in warm, humid conditions. Keep temperatures between 60 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 25 degrees Celsius) and humidity above 60 percent. 

Fertilizer

Your fishbone cactus should be fertilized once in the early spring with a liquid cactus/succulent fertilizer. As long as its potting medium contains organic matter (peat moss and/or orchid bark mix) the fishbone cactus will not require any additional fertilizing throughout the year.

Pruning

Fishbone cacti do not require regular pruning to stay healthy and happy, however, occasional trimming may be desired for aesthetic purposes.

How to Get a Fishbone Cactus to Bloom

To promote blooming in the late summer and fall, the fishbone cactus should be exposed to cold temperatures in the winter to early spring—ideally between 52-57 degrees Fahrenheit (or 11-14 degrees Celsius). During the late spring, resume regular care. Some growers have found that fertilizing their fishbone cactus with a high-potassium tomato fertilizer in the summer can help to promote blooming later in the season.

If these measures don’t result in any blooms, try again next year! Fishbone cacti are notoriously difficult to get blooms from indoors and may need a couple of years of care before they are ready to flower.