How to Grow Ric Rac Cactus
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Ric Rac Cactus
Selenicereus anthonyanus
succulentRic Rac Cactus is a striking epiphytic cactus native to Mexico, characterized by its distinctive wavy, ribbon-like stems with scalloped edges that resemble a zigzag pattern. It produces stunning large, fragrant white flowers that bloom at night and are followed by edible red fruits. This ornamental succulent is prized for its architectural foliage and is well-suited to container growing and hanging baskets.
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 9b-12, can be grown indoors or in containers in cooler zones
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Get my Ric Rac Cactus timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-8 weeksYoung cuttings or seedlings developing initial root systems and producing first 1-2 new segments
Keep soil slightly moist but not wet; provide bright indirect light; avoid fertilizing; root development takes 4-8 weeks
Vegetative Growth
1-2 yearsPlant produces multiple wavy stem segments with characteristic scalloped edges; plant expands and fills its container
Water when dry; fertilize every 3-4 weeks during spring and summer with diluted cactus fertilizer; provide support or allow to trail if in hanging basket
Maturation
6-12 monthsPlant reaches adequate size and vigor; stems become thicker and more robust; plant is ready to flower
Continue regular watering and feeding; ensure cooler winter temperatures (50-60°F) for 6-8 weeks to trigger flowering; maintain bright light conditions
Flowering
2-3 months (multiple blooms over season)Large, creamy-white fragrant flowers emerge from stem areoles, opening at night and typically lasting one evening
Provide cool winter dormancy period; maintain bright light; do not overwater during flowering; flowers appear in spring/early summer
Fruiting
4-6 weeksAfter pollinated flowers fade, bright red ovoid fruits develop on stems, maturing over 4-6 weeks
Fruits are edible with sweet flavor; allow to fully ripen on plant for best flavor; maintain consistent watering during fruit development
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or miticide if severe; improve air circulation
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; isolate infested plant
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Scrape off manually; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; monitor regularly for reinfestation
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Improve drainage; reduce watering frequency; repot in fresh, dry soil; trim away rotted roots if necessary
Uses
Edible Dragon Fruit
CulinaryThe fruits produced after night-blooming flowers are edible with a sweet, tropical flavor and are used fresh or in desserts, jams, and beverages. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. [source]
Ornamental Houseplant
HouseholdThe striking wavy, ribbon-like stems with scalloped edges provide year-round architectural interest in indoor spaces, container gardens, and hanging baskets, adding tropical aesthetic appeal. [source]
Night Blooming Garden Feature
CraftThe dramatic large white night-blooming flowers create a unique evening garden experience and can be featured in night gardens or containers placed near windows for nocturnal viewing. [source]
Traditional Ethnobotanical Use
MedicinalIn Mexican traditional medicine, various Selenicereus species have been used to support respiratory health and general wellness, though scientific research is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Flowers bloom primarily at night in late spring through early summer; pick flowers in early morning after they close. Fruits ripen 4-6 weeks after flowering; harvest when fully red and slightly soft to touch. Fruits are sweet and can be eaten fresh or used in jams. Can also propagate from 4-6 inch stem cuttings; allow to dry 2-3 days before planting in succulent mix.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Ric Rac Cactus is also called 'Moon Cactus' or 'Fishbone Cactus' due to its dramatic night-blooming flowers and distinctive leaf-like stem segments; it is an epiphytic cactus that naturally grows on trees in tropical forests rather than on the ground.
- 🌱 The night-blooming flowers are pollinated by nocturnal creatures like moths and bats in their native habitat; the fragrance is strongest at night to attract these pollinators.
- 🌱 This species was named after Antoine Meunier, a Belgian botanist, and the specific epithet 'anthonyanus' references Anthony Hywood, a cactus enthusiast; it is closely related to the famous Night-Blooming Cereus (Selenicereus grandiflorus).
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