This Zig-Zag Cactus Blooms With Stunning Red Flowers — Here’s How to Grow It
The Zig-Zag Cactus, also known as the Fishbone Cactus, Ric Rac Cactus, or Epiphyllum anguliger, is one of the most eye-catching houseplants you can grow. Its unique zig-zag leaves and dramatic red, pink, or orange blooms make it look like a living piece of modern art.
Even better? It’s easy to care for, fast growing, and perfect for anyone who wants a tropical, exotic plant that thrives indoors with minimal effort.
This guide shows you exactly how to grow a zig-zag cactus to produce strong stems and abundant blooms.
Why the Zig-Zag Cactus Is So Special
- Its stems grow in a beautiful, wavy zig-zag pattern
- It blooms with large, bright red flowers that open at night
- It grows well indoors and outdoors
- It tolerates low maintenance and irregular watering
- It’s a unique decorative plant for modern homes and apartments
This plant is a must-have for anyone who loves rare indoor plants or wants something visually striking for shelves, windowsills, or hanging pots.
How to Grow the Zig-Zag Cactus (Complete Guide)
1. Use Light That Encourages Flowering
The zig-zag cactus prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
To boost flowering:
✔ Place near an east-facing or west-facing window
✔ Avoid harsh direct afternoon sun
✔ Provide 6–8 hours of good light daily
Low light = slow growth and no blooms.
2. The Best Soil Mix for Healthy Roots
Unlike desert cacti, the zig-zag cactus is tropical, meaning it needs slightly richer, airy soil.
Perfect mix:
- 50% cactus or succulent soil
- 30% orchid bark
- 20% perlite
This mimics its natural habitat growing on trees and prevents root rot.
3. Watering: Moist But Never Soggy
This cactus loves moisture but hates overwatering.
Follow the rule:
Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
Typical schedule:
- Every 7–10 days in warm months
- Every 2–3 weeks in winter
Use filtered or rainwater if possible — it helps prevent mineral buildup.
4. Temperature & Humidity
Being a tropical cactus, it loves:
✔ 18–27°C (65–80°F)
✔ Medium to high humidity
It thrives near kitchens, bright bathrooms, or rooms with humidifiers.
Avoid cold drafts below 10°C (50°F) — this can stunt growth or cause stem damage.
5. Fertilizing for Giant Red Blooms
To encourage flowering, feed it during spring and summer.
Best fertilizers:
- Organic liquid fertilizer
- Bloom-boosting fertilizer (low nitrogen, high phosphorus)
- Worm castings tea
Feed once every 3–4 weeks during the growing season.
Stop feeding in fall to let the plant rest.
6. Support & Training for Beautiful Shape
This cactus grows long, trailing stems. To enhance its aesthetic:
You can:
- Let it cascade naturally
- Train it onto a trellis for a sculptural look
- Use a stake for upward growth
- Place in a hanging pot for a waterfall effect
Your plant in the photo shows a natural arch — which is perfect for encouraging blooms.
7. How to Trigger Flowering
To help your zig-zag cactus bloom:
✓ Step 1 — Provide bright light
Blooming requires strong, indirect light.
✓ Step 2 — Cool nights
12–18°C (55–65°F) for a few weeks encourages bud formation.
✓ Step 3 — Reduce watering slightly
Let the soil dry out a bit more before watering.
✓ Step 4 — Fertilize during spring/summer
Use bloom fertilizer for best results.
✓ Step 5 — Do not move the plant when buds appear
Movement causes buds to drop.
With this routine, expect spectacular red flowers that look like tropical lanterns.
Common Problems & Solutions
❌ Stems turning yellow?
Too much sun or overwatering. Move to indirect light and reduce watering.
❌ No flowers?
- Not enough light
- Too much nitrogen fertilizer
- No cool-night period
❌ Stems wrinkling?
Underwatering — give a deep drink.
❌ Brown tips?
Low humidity — mist occasionally or use a pebble tray.
Final Thoughts
The zig-zag cactus is one of the most stunning houseplants you can grow, especially when it bursts into bright red blooms. With the right light, watering routine, and gentle feeding, it will reward you with vigorous growth and spectacular flowers year after year.