How to Grow Ric Rac Cactus
Wikimedia Commons
Ric Rac Cactus
Selenicereus anthonyanus
succulentRic Rac Cactus is a distinctive trailing or climbing succulent with flattened, wing-like stems that resemble a zigzag or ric rac ribbon pattern. It produces stunning fragrant white flowers that bloom at night, followed by edible pink fruits. This epiphytic cactus is relatively easy to grow and highly ornamental as a houseplant or hanging basket specimen.
When should you plant Ric Rac Cactus in your zone?
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Example Ric Rac Cactus timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Ric Rac 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 Ric Rac Cactus
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10b-11; grow indoors in cooler climates
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Get my Ric Rac Cactus timeline →Growth Stages
Propagation
2-4 weeksStem segments are freshly cut, showing exposed nodes and fresh tissue ready to root
Allow cuttings to callus over for 2-3 days before planting; use well-draining soil; mist lightly until roots form (2-3 weeks)
Establishment
4-8 weeksYoung plants develop roots and new growth begins; stems are small and tender
Keep soil lightly moist; provide bright indirect light; avoid fertilizing; protect from direct sun
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsPlant develops more stems with characteristic flattened, wing-like segments; growth is vigorous
Water when soil surface dries; feed monthly with diluted balanced succulent fertilizer during spring-summer; provide support or hanging basket for trailing growth
Flowering
Summer, typically June-July; individual flowers last one nightLarge, fragrant white flowers emerge from the edges of stems, opening at night; blooms are 6-8 inches across
Ensure plant has matured (2+ years); provide adequate light and cool winter rest period (50-60°F) to trigger blooming; do not move plant when buds are forming
Fruiting
2-3 months after floweringAfter pollination, pink or red fruits develop, resembling small dragon fruit; fruits contain edible flesh with small seeds
Maintain regular watering; continue light fertilizing; fruits mature over 2-3 months; harvest when fully colored and slightly soft
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate affected plant; wipe stems with 70% isopropyl alcohol on cotton swabs
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Increase humidity with regular misting; spray with neem oil or miticide; ensure good air circulation
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Remove by hand with alcohol-soaked cotton swab; apply horticultural oil spray; repeat weekly until clear
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Reduce watering frequency; allow soil surface to dry; use yellow sticky traps; apply sand mulch over soil
Uses
Edible Dragon-Like Fruit
CulinaryThe pink fruits contain sweet, mild-flavored flesh with small edible seeds, similar to dragon fruit. The flesh can be eaten fresh, added to smoothies, or used in desserts and beverages. [source]
Ornamental Night-Blooming Display Plant
HouseholdThe stunning fragrant white flowers that bloom at night make it a prized specimen for indoor gardeners and plant collectors. Its unique ric rac stem pattern provides year-round architectural interest. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe fragrant night flowers attract nocturnal pollinators, particularly moths and bats, making it ecologically valuable where grown outdoors in warm climates. [source]
Hanging Basket & Container Gardens
CraftThe trailing, cascading growth habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets, vertical gardens, and decorative container arrangements indoors or on patios. [source]
Harvest Tips
Fruits are ready to harvest when fully colored (pink to red) and slightly yielding to pressure, typically 2-3 months after flowering. Cut or gently twist fruits from the plant. Harvest in early morning. Fruits can be eaten fresh; scoop out flesh and seeds with a spoon. The fruit quality improves if harvested slightly overripe.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Ric Rac Cactus flowers are night-bloomers that open in the evening and close by morning, with a delightful fragrance that intensifies at night to attract nocturnal pollinators.
- 🌱 The flattened, wing-like stems are an adaptation to its natural epiphytic lifestyle—in the wild, it grows on tree branches in tropical forests rather than in desert soil.
- 🌱 The common name 'Ric Rac' refers to the distinctive zigzag or wavy pattern of the stems, resembling the decorative ric rac trim used in sewing.
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