Epiphyllum 'Ric Rac' Cactus

Zig-zag stems, wild texture, and a trailing shape that looks nothing like a typical cactus.

The Epiphyllum ‘Ric Rac’ Cactus, also known as the Fishbone Cactus or Zig Zag Cactus, brings a completely different kind of structure to your plant collection with long, flattened stems cut into dramatic alternating lobes.

Botanically known as Disocactus anguliger, this tropical cactus naturally grows in trees rather than desert soil, which means it prefers brighter filtered light, a little more moisture, and more humidity than the average cactus.

As the stems lengthen, they spill beautifully from hanging planters and shelves, creating a sculptural trailing look that feels equal parts tropical and unexpected.

Why You’ll Love It

• One-of-a-kind zig-zag foliage
  Flattened stems grow in bold alternating lobes that resemble a fishbone or ric-rac trim.
• Made for hanging and trailing
  Long stems naturally cascade as the plant matures, making it perfect for shelves and hanging planters.
• Not your average cactus
  Ric Rac Cactus comes from tropical forest conditions, so it has a softer, more lush personality than desert cacti.
• Can produce spectacular flowers
  Mature plants may produce large, fragrant blooms, often opening in the evening.
• A collector favorite without a huge footprint
  It brings unusual shape and texture without taking up floor space.

Best For

Hanging planters • Shelving • Bright bathrooms • Home offices • Small spaces • Plant collectors • Tropical cactus lovers • Unique foliage collections

Care at a Glance

Light: Bright, indirect light; gentle morning sun is usually fine
Water: Allow the upper portion of the soil to dry slightly before watering thoroughly
Humidity: Appreciates moderate humidity
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly to intermediate
Pet Friendly: Generally considered non-toxic, but avoid encouraging pets to chew the plant

Styling Tip

Let this one spill.

The Ric Rac Cactus looks best in a hanging planter, on a floating shelf, bookshelf, or tall plant stand where the zig-zag stems have room to cascade.

Its sculptural shape pairs beautifully with simple terracotta, stone, cream, charcoal, or earthy planters. For a layered display, place it near softer trailing plants or broad-leaved tropicals so the angular stems stand out.

Good to Know

Ric Rac Cactus is a tropical epiphytic cactus, not a desert cactus.

That means it prefers a chunkier, well-draining mix that still holds a little moisture, along with brighter indirect light and somewhat more consistent watering than a typical succulent.

Allow the upper portion of the soil to dry slightly before watering again, but avoid letting the plant stay bone-dry for long stretches.

Bright indirect light will support the strongest growth and improve the chances of flowering. Harsh afternoon sun can scorch the flattened stems.

As the plant matures, the stems can become long and dramatic, and older plants may eventually produce large, fragrant flowers.

You may see this plant labeled Epiphyllum Ric Rac, Fishbone Cactus, Zig Zag Cactus, Orchid Cactus, or Disocactus anguliger.

If you’re searching for a unique trailing cactus with zig-zag foliage, Epiphyllum ‘Ric Rac’ brings bold shape, tropical texture, and serious personality to shelves and hanging planters.