How to Grow Fishbone Cactus
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Fishbone Cactus
Selenicereus anthonyanus
succulentFishbone cactus is a sprawling epiphytic cactus native to Mexico, characterized by flattened, deeply lobed stems that resemble fishbones in appearance. Unlike typical cacti, it prefers indirect light and regular moisture, making it an excellent houseplant. It produces fragrant white flowers and can climb or trail gracefully from hanging baskets.
When should you plant Fishbone Cactus in your zone?
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Example Fishbone Cactus timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Fishbone Cactus
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Fishbone Cactus
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives outdoors in zones 10b-11; best grown indoors or in containers in cooler climates
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Get my Fishbone Cactus timeline →Growth Stages
Propagation
3-4 weeksSingle stem segments or cuttings with no roots; tissue is soft and pale green
Allow cut ends to callus for 1-2 days before planting. Keep soil lightly moist but well-draining. Provide bright, indirect light. Root development occurs over 3-4 weeks
Establishment
2-3 monthsNew roots visible, small new growth emerging; stems remain relatively compact
Gradually increase watering once roots establish. Begin fertilizing monthly with diluted cactus fertilizer. Provide bright, indirect light and good air circulation
Vegetative Growth
6-12 months per growth cycleVigorous stem elongation with characteristic fishbone-like lobed segments; plant develops branching structure
Water regularly during growing season (spring/summer). Apply diluted fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Provide support structure or hanging basket if desired. Prune to shape and encourage bushiness
Flowering
2-3 months (spring-early summer)Fragrant white flowers appear along mature stems, typically opening in evening and closing by morning; blooms are large and showy
Maintain consistent moisture and warmth. Provide bright, indirect light. Mature plants (3+ years) flower readily in spring/early summer. Do not disturb blooming stems
Fruiting & Rest
3-4 monthsSmall red berries develop where flowers were; growth slows in fall/winter
Reduce watering frequency by 30-40% in winter. Provide cooler temperatures (50-60°F) to trigger next flowering cycle. Berries are edible but small
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil every 7-10 days until resolved. Remove visible pests with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol
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Increase humidity by misting and improve air circulation. Use miticide or neem oil spray. Isolate affected plant
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Manually remove with cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Treat every 2 weeks until eliminated
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Allow soil to dry between waterings. Repot in fresh, sterile soil if rot is severe. Remove affected roots and treat with fungicide
Uses
Ornamental Houseplant & Décor
HouseholdFishbone cactus is prized as an indoor plant for its dramatic, architectural foliage and graceful trailing habit. Its unique segmented stems create visual interest in hanging baskets, on shelves, or as a living wall plant [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe large, fragrant white flowers are attractive to pollinators, particularly night-flying moths and bats in native habitats. Growing fishbone cactus indoors near a window can attract nocturnal insects [source]
Traditional Use & Healing
MedicinalIn Mexican traditional medicine, Selenicereus species have been used to support skin health and wound healing. Some cultivars in the Selenicereus genus contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties [source]
Floral Arrangements & Cut Flowers
CraftThe striking night-blooming white flowers are excellent for cutting and display in evening floral arrangements. Flowers last one night but are spectacular and heavily scented [source]
Edible Fruit & Ornamental Value
CulinaryThe small, red, egg-shaped fruits produced after flowering are edible with a sweet, seedy interior similar to dragon fruit. While not a major food source, berries can be eaten fresh or used in beverages [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Fishbone cactus is not typically harvested for food or yield. Propagate by taking 4-6 inch stem cuttings in spring or summer. Flowers appear in evening and close by morning—harvest them immediately after opening for arrangements. Small red berries are edible and ripen 4-6 weeks after flowering
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Fishbone cactus is an epiphytic cactus, meaning it naturally grows on trees in tropical rainforests rather than in deserts, which explains its preference for moisture and indirect light compared to typical desert cacti
- 🌱 The flowers open at night and emit a strong, sweet fragrance to attract nocturnal pollinators like moths and bats. They typically close by mid-morning, making them truly 'night-blooming wonders'
- 🌱 The distinctive flattened, lobed stems that resemble fishbones are called cladodes and have largely replaced true leaves in this species—an evolutionary adaptation to its tropical canopy habitat
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