How to Grow Ric Rac Cactus

Ric Rac Cactus

Selenicereus anthonyanus

succulent

A striking epiphytic cactus native to Mexico, known for its distinctive zig-zag, ribbon-like stems with deeply scalloped edges that resemble a ric-rac trim or fishbone. It produces fragrant, large white flowers that bloom at night, followed by red or pink fruits. This unusual cactus is popular as a houseplant and landscape specimen in warm climates.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Bright, indirect light for 6-8 hours daily; tolerates some morning sun but protect from intense afternoon heat in hot climates

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Water: Water thoroughly when soil is completely dry (every 10-14 days in growing season). Reduce watering in winter to once monthly. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Mist lightly if grown in dry indoor environments.

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Spacing: 24 inches

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Days to maturity: 2-3 years to mature plant size; flowering begins in 2-4 years

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Planting depth: Surface-level for cuttings; if planting rooted segments, plant 1-2 inches deep at soil line

Soil

Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix

pH: 6.0-7.0

Amendments:

Perlite or coarse sand (30% of mix) Orchid bark (for epiphytic nature) Activated charcoal (to prevent root rot)

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives outdoors in zones 10b-11; in cooler zones, grow as a houseplant or container plant moved indoors during winter

10b 11a 11b

Growth Stages

Propagation & Establishment

3-4 weeks

Cuttings develop tiny calluses at cut ends; initial roots emerge after 2-3 weeks in well-draining soil. Young plants are small with soft, pale-green ric-rac segments.

Keep soil barely moist, not wet. Avoid direct sun for 2-3 weeks. Provide warmth (70-75°F). Misting helps rooting without waterlogging.

Vegetative Growth

1-2 years or ongoing

Plant develops multiple stems with characteristic flattened, scalloped zig-zag patterns. Stems elongate 3-6 inches per year. Foliage becomes darker, deeper green.

Maintain bright, indirect light. Water when soil is dry. Feed monthly with diluted balanced or low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer during spring-summer. Prune to shape if desired.

Pre-flowering

6-12 months before first flowers

Plant reaches mature size; stems thicken slightly. Plant may show seasonal dormancy or slower growth in winter.

Continue bright light and warm temperatures (60-75°F). Reduce water in late fall-early winter to encourage flowering. Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Flowering

1-2 weeks per flower; multiple flowers over 1-3 months

Large, fragrant white flowers bloom at night, typically 6-8 inches across with numerous stamens and delicate petals. Flowers open in evening and close by morning. Blooming typically occurs in spring-summer.

Maintain consistent moisture during flowering (but not wet). Ensure nighttime temperatures drop to 50-60°F to trigger flowering. Provide bright light. Do not move blooming plant.

Fruiting & Seed Set

8-12 weeks from flower to ripe fruit

After pollination, small developing fruits appear where flowers were. Fruits mature over 2-3 months, turning red or pink, becoming plump and fleshy. Each fruit contains numerous seeds.

Continue regular care. Fruits are edible with a sweet flavor. Allow fruits to fully ripen on plant before harvesting. Collect seeds if propagating.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Epiphyllum (orchid cactus) Rhipsalis (mistletoe cactus) Hoya (wax plant) Monstera (Swiss cheese plant) Tillandsia (air plants)

Avoid planting near:

Moisture-loving perennials Ferns Standard tropical houseplants requiring frequent watering Plants that prefer acidic soil

Common Pests

Isolate plant; remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab or spray with insecticidal soap. Repeat every 10-14 days if needed.
Remove manually with brush or cloth; spray with horticultural oil or neem oil every 7-10 days until clear.
Increase humidity via misting. Spray with water or neem oil. Ensure good air circulation.
Improve drainage immediately; allow soil to dry out. Repot in fresh, dry cactus mix if rot is severe. Reduce watering frequency.

Uses

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Edible Fruits

Culinary

The ripe fruits are edible with a sweet, mild flavor and soft texture similar to dragon fruit. They can be eaten fresh, scooped directly from the skin, or used in smoothies and desserts. [source]

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Ornamental Houseplant

Household

The unusual ric-rac ribbon-like stems provide dramatic architectural interest in indoor spaces, patios, and hanging baskets. The nocturnal white flowers are highly fragrant and exotic. [source]

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Pollinator Attraction

Wildlife

Night-blooming flowers attract nocturnal pollinators including bats and night-flying insects in outdoor settings, supporting local ecosystems. [source]

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Succulent Propagation & Gardening

Craft

The cactus is easily propagated from stem cuttings, making it popular for hobbyists who enjoy propagating and sharing succulents with others. [source]

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Traditional Use

Medicinal

In some cultures, parts of Selenicereus species have been used in traditional herbal preparations, though scientific evidence 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

Harvest ripe fruits when they turn fully red or pink and are soft to gentle pressure (typically 8-12 weeks after flowering). Cut fruits from stem with clean shears. For propagation, take 3-4 inch stem cuttings in spring or summer, allow cut ends to callus for 3-5 days in a dry location, then plant in well-draining mix.

Fun Facts

🌱 The genus Selenicereus is named after the moon goddess Selene, referring to the night-blooming behavior of its flowers.
🌱 Ric Rac Cactus flowers bloom for only one night, typically opening around 8-9 PM and closing by sunrise, making them a special event to witness.
🌱 This epiphytic cactus naturally grows on trees in Mexican rainforests, clinging to bark and branches rather than growing in soil, which is why it prefers excellent drainage.

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