Jenny's Garden...Plant pictures and gardening descriptions

Cryptocereus anthonyanus
(Fishbone Orchid Cactus, Rick-Rac Cactus, Zig-Zag Cactus, Anthony's Rick-Rack)

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Image of the unique-shaped foliage of Cryptocereus anthonyanus

Cryptocereus anthonyanus
(Ric-Rac Cactus, Anthony's Rick-Rack, Zig-Zag Cactus, Fishbone Orchid Cactus)

Family:  Cactaceae
Origin:  Mexico
Light:  Indirect sun/ shade 
Height:  3'
Spread:  Climbing habit with aerial roots 
Blooms: Fragrant white, pink and maroon one-time bloom at night.  Blooms rarely on old rootbound plants.
Foliage:  Evergreen, fish-bone shaped
Soil:  Cactus potting soil with little humus

Water: Keep dry between watering, reduce watering in Winter

Fertilize: Liquid fertilizer especially during blooming season

Propagation: Cuttings
Uses: Hanging baskets

Caution:  Invisible thorns, wear gloves 
Comments:  Cryptocereus anthonyanus or Ric-Rac Cactus or Anthony's Rick-Rack or Zig-Zag Cactus or Fishbone Orchid Cactus is an unsual epiphyte plant with uniquely shaped leaves.  This forest cactus loves bright indirect shade and is  very easy  to grow.  In its native habitat, Ric-Rac Cactus can be found growing in clusters, hanging down from tree branches.  Cryptocereus anthonyanus needs to be trimmed occassionally to maintain shape. The foliage can be easily propagated.  The ideal temperature for growing this plant is 40 degrees F and up.

USDA Hardiness Zones: 8b-10b