Disocactus anguliger – The Original Fishbone Cactus

Disocactus anguliger, formerly known as Epiphyllum anguliger, is a unique epiphytic cactus native to southern Mexico. Known as the Fishbone or Zig Zag Cactus, it features deeply lobed, succulent stems that resemble the backbone of a fish. Its flowing, architectural growth is perfect for hanging baskets, trailing from shelves, or growing on vertical supports. Under the right conditions, mature plants produce large, fragrant, night-blooming flowers — a rare reward for patient indoor growers.
 
● Striking Features of Disocactus anguliger

Distinctive Stems: Flattened, deeply lobed segments with undulating margins. Each stem measures top 15 – 20 % wide and up to 30 cm long.
Fragrant Night Blooms: Large (up to 20 cm), white to yellow flowers that open after dusk and emit a sweet scent.
Epiphytic Habit: Grows naturally on trees and mossy surfaces in cloud forests — adapted to bright shade, moisture, and airflow.
 
● Native Habitat and Elevation

Disocactus anguliger is endemic to cloud forests in Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Jalisco, Mexico. It grows between 1,000 – 1,800 meters elevation, clinging to tree bark and shaded rock faces in humid montane regions. It prefers filtered light, moderate warmth, and air movement — all factors that can be mimicked indoors.
 
● How to Care for Disocactus anguliger

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Tolerates gentle morning sun, but avoid harsh direct rays which can scorch the stems.
Watering: Water thoroughly when the top 10 – 15% of substrate is dry. Reduce watering slightly in cooler months.
Humidity: Enjoys moderate humidity (50 – 70%). Can adapt to average indoor humidity but benefits from grouping with other plants.
Temperature: Optimal range is 18 – 25°C. Protect from temperatures below 10°C and cold drafts.
Soil: Use a loose, well-draining mix such as orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir. Avoid compact potting soils.
Fertilizing: Apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 – 6 weeks during active growth. Do not overfeed.
Repotting: Every 2 – 3 years or when rootbound. Prefers slightly tight conditions to encourage flowering.
 
● Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Yellowing Stems: Usually a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Check moisture levels and aeration.
Brown Edges: Caused by low humidity or too much direct sun. Increase ambient humidity and relocate to filtered light.
No Blooms: May indicate immaturity or insufficient light. Encourage blooming by providing bright conditions and a cool, dry rest in winter.
Pests: Watch for spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Treat early with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
 
● Propagation of Disocactus anguliger

Easily propagated via stem cuttings. Let cuttings callous for 1 – 2 days, then place in a well-draining mix. Rooting usually occurs within 2 – 3 weeks in warm, humid conditions. Best done in spring or early summer.
 
● Etymology of Disocactus anguliger

The genus name Disocactus is from Greek “dis” (double) and “kaktos,” referencing the flattened, lobed stems. The species name anguliger comes from Latin and means “angle-bearing,” describing the distinctive zig-zag shape of the foliage.
 
● Winter Care Tips

During winter, reduce watering frequency but don’t allow complete drying out.
Keep in a bright, slightly cooler room (15 – 20°C) to simulate natural rest phase.
Stop fertilizing until active growth resumes in spring.
 
● FAQs about Disocactus anguliger

Will it bloom indoors? Yes — given bright conditions, maturity (usually 3+ years), and a cool, dry rest period in winter, it can bloom indoors.
Can I use cactus soil? Only if amended — pure cactus soil is often too dense. Mix with orchid bark and perlite to improve airflow.
Does it like to be rootbound? Yes — slightly rootbound conditions can promote flowering.
 
● Buy Disocactus anguliger Online

Disocactus anguliger is a stunning, architectural trailing cactus with fragrant blooms and sculptural stems. Order now and add this iconic fishbone beauty to your collection!