Ric Rac Cactus

Ric Rac Cactus, also known by the common names Fishbone Cactus or Orchid Cactus, is not a true cactus. This epiphytic rainforest plant has modified leaves, like a cactus, which require high humidity levels and low light in their native Mexico homes. Ric Rac Cactus is mainly grown for the long, zig-zag leaves, but when this plant is mature and under the right conditions, it will bloom with one of the showiest flowers of any houseplant.

Best Locations For Growing Ric Rac Cactus

Ric Rac Cactus likes to stretch out and hang in a bright, warm room with high humidity. A humidifier is not necessary, although a daily mist with water will keep the air humidity around this cactus high. Fine hairs on the leaves can be irritating, making this plant not a great choice for a child’s room.

Ric Rac Cactus Sunlight Requirements

This rainforest epiphyte grows as an understory plant in the wild with dappled sun and semi-shade. In the home, Ric Rac Cactus grows best in indirect bright and medium light. Leaves will grow thinner and slower if the light levels are too low. Letting Ric Rac Cactus live outdoors during the summer may help the plant bloom. Always give the plant a shady location with either dappled sun or early morning sun.

Ric Rac Cactus Care

Ric Rac Cactus thrives in temperatures between 68-80 degrees F. Bring your plant inside before nighttime temperatures dip bellow 50 F. Use an indoor potting mix and add perlite and fine orchid bark to make the soil rich and free draining. The roots may begin to grow out of the drainage holes to let you know it is time for a pot 1-2 sizes bigger. Leaving the plants rootbound for a season may encourage flowering. Repotting will be needed every 2-3 years.

Watering Ric Rac Cactus

Watering this cactus is very different from a true desert cactus. Ric Rac Cactus will require regular watering, like other tropical houseplants. The top 2-3 inches of soil should be left to dry out in between waterings. Watering may be required much less during the winter when the plant enters a semi-dormant rest period. Always use room temperature water. Cold water will shock the roots. Water with either rainwater or tap water that has been left to sit for 24 hours. This will dissipate any chlorine or other chemicals used in treating municipal water.

Feeding Ric Rac Cactus

Fertilize this plant once in the spring as it comes out of winter dormancy. A liquid fertilizer formulated for cactus or succulents will assist with good root formation and green foliage. Feeding Ric Rac Cactus with a liquid Orchid fertilizer once a month during the summer may help it to form flower buds in the late summer or early fall.