The zigzag cactus, known by the scientific name Selenicereus anthonyanus, is a fascinating tropical cactus species cherished by plant enthusiasts for its intriguing appearance. Its unique characteristics include elongated, flattened stems that resemble fishbones or zigzag patterns, which is why it’s often called the “Ric Rac” or “Fishbone Plants.” This cacti’s native habitats are in the jungles of Mexico, but it is also a popular addition to any indoor plant collection.
In this article, we’ll review step-by-step instructions for propagation, including the necessary tools, preparation steps, planting techniques, and ongoing care to ensure successful propagation of your zigzag cactus. Additionally, we will touch upon alternative propagation methods and offer tips for caring for newly propagated cacti. By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped start propagating your zigzag cactus.
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The zig zag cactus, also known as fishbone cactus or ric rac cactus, is a fun and easy houseplant to propagate With its striking zig zag stems, this cactus adds visual interest to any space Propagating a zig zag cactus is simple and a great way to make more plants to share or expand your own collection.
Overview of Zig Zag Cactus
The zig zag cactus is native to the tropical forests of Mexico and is classified as an epiphytic cactus This means in its natural habitat, it grows on the branches and trunks of trees There are two main species that are both known as zig zag cactus
- Epiphyllum anguliger – Has yellow and white flowers
- Selenicereus anthonyanus – Has pink or reddish flowers
These two species have slightly different looking foliage but very similar care needs The zig zag cactus has flattened, segmented green stems that grow in a zig zag pattern, giving it its common name. With the right care, these trailing stems can grow quite long
Mature zig zag cacti may flower in the spring or summer. The flowers are gorgeous but short-lived, only lasting about a day. These cacti prefer warm temperatures and do best with some direct sunlight. They also require well-draining soil and do not like to sit in wet soil.
How to Propagate a Zig Zag Cactus
Propagating a zig zag cactus is quite easy! Here are the steps:
1. Take Cuttings
- Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to take 3-4 inch cuttings from the stems.
- Take multiple cuttings to make as many new plants as desired.
- Be careful not to turn the cuttings upside down as they will not root properly if flipped.
2. Allow Cuttings to Callous
- Place the cuttings in a dry area and allow to callous over for 2-3 days.
- This prevents rotting when propagating.
3. Root Cuttings
- Once calloused, place cuttings in water or moist soil to root.
- If water propagating, place cuttings in glass jars or vases with just the bottom submerged.
- If soil propagating, use a well-draining cactus mix and keep it slightly moist.
- Roots should emerge in 2-4 weeks.
4. Plant in Soil
- Once roots are 1 inch long, plant cuttings in a pot with cactus mix.
- Bury about 2/3 of the cutting, leaving 1/3 exposed.
- Water thoroughly after planting and let excess drain out.
5. Care for New Plants
- Place in bright, indirect light. East or west facing windows are ideal.
- Water when top inch of soil is dry. Allow more time to dry in winter.
- Use a cactus fertilizer occasionally during spring and summer.
- Repot when roots fill container, usually every 2-3 years.
Tips for Propagating Zig Zag Cactus
- Take cuttings in spring or summer during active growth. Avoid winter.
- More cuttings means a fuller, bushier plant. Take plenty!
- Well-draining soil is essential to prevent rotting.
- Water sparingly at first until cuttings establish roots.
- Give new plants a trellis or stake as support when stems get long.
Propagating a zig zag cactus is an easy, gratifying way to make more of these uncommon trailing succulents. In no time at all you can have tons of the cool zig zag stems to create an eye-catching display. Share with friends or create your own patches of spiky green in your home.
Step 4: Ongoing Care and Troubleshooting
- Watering Schedule: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Water sparingly to avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Overwatering is a common issue with cacti.
- Monitor for Root Development: After a few weeks to a few months, your cutting should start developing roots. You can gently tug on it to check for resistance, indicating that it has rooted. Be patient, as the timeline can vary.
- Transplanting: Once roots have developed and the cutting has grown, transplant it into a new pot with a little more space to grow.
- Yellowing or Shrinking Cutting: This may indicate overwatering. Reduce watering frequency.
- Mold or Fungus: If you notice mold or fungus on the cutting or in the soil, it is a good idea to increase air circulation and reduce humidity around the plant.
- Slow Root Development: If roots take longer to form, ensure proper humidity and avoid disturbing the cutting.
- Stunted Growth: If the cutting’s growth is slow, check the light conditions and ensure it gets enough bright, indirect sunlight.
By following these steps and monitoring your cutting’s progress, you can successfully propagate your zigzag cactus using stem cuttings. Patience and attention to proper care are key to achieving healthy, thriving new plants.
Choosing a Healthy Parent Plant
Selecting a healthy parent plant is a critical step in successful propagation. Here’s why it matters:
- Disease and Pest Resistance: A healthy parent plant is less susceptible to diseases and pests, reducing the risk of these issues affecting the propagated plants.
- Vibrant Growth: Choose a parent plant that demonstrates vigorous growth with lush, green stems and no signs of stress or wilting.
- No Signs of Disease: Inspect the parent plant for any signs of fungal infections, rot, or other diseases. Avoid propagating from a plant with visible issues.
- Age and Maturity: Opt for a mature zigzag cactus that has reached a suitable size for propagation. Younger plants may not have the energy reserves needed for successful propagation.
Zig Zag cactus AKA Selenicereus anthonyanus care and propagation
FAQ
Can I root fishbone cactus in water?
Instead of soil, you can also use water as a growing and rooting medium for your Fishbone Cactus cuttings. The benefits include being able to watch your cuttings develop new roots. Don’t forget to change the water weekly until the rooted cutting is ready for planting in soil.
Can you cut off a piece of cactus and plant it?
Yes, you can propagate a cactus from a cutting. To do this, carefully remove a segment or pad from the parent cactus and let the cut end callous over for several days before planting it in well-draining cactus soil.