Epiphyllum Anguliger, The Fishbone Cactus. A real, quirky favourite, very easy to care for and a joy to look at. Obviously named as the succulent stems resemble fish bones.
Naturally epiphytic, something that grows on another plant or organism sympathetically, and takes its water and nutrients from its surroundings.
Originally from humid rainforests, as opposed to a desert cactus, so prefers less light and more moisture than its name suggests.
Epiphyllum prefer bright, indirect light, this mimics sun light through the jungle canopy. Will easily adapt to semi-shade but growth will be slower. Do avoid direct Summer sun as the leaves will scorch.
From Spring until late Summer keep the compost evenly moist, not waterlogged. Water thoroughly, about once a week, then allow the top half of compost to dry out before watering again. If kept in shade it may take a little longer to dry, so don`t be hasty, it`s best to be a little cautious to avoid over watering. If possible use rainwater, or tap water that has been allowed to stand for 24 hours.
During the colder months in heated rooms increase the humidity around your plant. Group together with other plants, stand on a tray of moist gravel, or occasional misting will increase the moisture in the air around your plant.
Room temperatures between 16-25c are fine, so quite happy in a cool or warm room.
Fertilise moderately through Spring and Summer , once every 2-3 weeks, with a half strength balanced liquid cacti and succulent feed.
Minimum Temp: 10c
In Winter, when growth is slow, reduce the amount and frequency of water, and do not fertilise.
Tolerates cooler temperatures, down to 10c, but only for short periods.
Fishbone cacti do produce aerial roots, to help them anchor themselves to their host plant, so if you see this happening it is quite natural.
Remove any old, yellow leaves to maintain good plant health.
Overly long stems can be pruned to help maintain the size, or shape, of the plant. New stems will generally grow from where you cut it. The cut stem can then be easily used to produce a new plant. Best done in Spring, as new growth is starting. Simply take a cut stem and allow the cut end to callus over for a few days. Then pot, callus down, in moist, good quality, free draining cacti compost. Hold off on watering until you see signs of growth, this will mean that new roots have formed. If given too much water before this can lead to the roots rotting and the cutting failing. Keep warm, above 18c.
Warnings: Non-toxic to pets and humans.
