How to propagate Fishbone Cactus plants

INSIDE : Learn how to propagate your Fishbone Cactus with our step-by-step guide. This post covers – soil and water propagation methods, callousing tips and expert light care to help your Ric Rac cactus thrive. Start growing this gorgeous plant today!

This post may contain affiliate links.  See full disclosure here.

If you’re looking for a houseplant that makes a big statement, look no further than the beautiful Fishbone Cactus! Also known as the Ric Rac cactus, Zig Zag cactus or Selenicereus anthonyanus – this Mexican native is famous for its long, trailing stems that look remarkably like a skeletal fish frame.

My plant was gifted from a friend and I started with a small 3″ cutting (see below). Now my Fishbone is HUGE and constantly growing more and more “stems/branches”!!

As a plant enthusiast, I know there’s nothing more rewarding than turning one healthy plant into five – ha! Whether you want to gift a “pup” to a friend or fill out a sparse pot, propagation is the way to go.

Today, I’m breaking down the easiest methods to propagate your Fishbone Cactus so you can expand your indoor houseplant jungle with minimal effort.

Why Propagate the Fishbone Cactus?

The Fishbone Cactus is an epiphytic cactus, meaning in nature it grows on other plants rather than in soil. This makes it incredibly resilient and very easy to take cuttings and regrow.

Propagation isn’t just about getting “free” plants – it’s also a great way to prune an overgrown plant and encourage fuller growth at the base.

Method 1: Soil Propagation (A Reliable Choice)

Soil propagation is often the most successful method because it allows the plant to adapt to its permanent growing medium immediately.

1. Take Your Cutting

Using a pair of sterilized pruning shears, snip a healthy stem.

Aim for a piece that is at least 3–5 inches long.

2. Let it Callous

This is the most important step. Unlike most houseplants, cacti need to “dry out” before they hit the dirt. Leave your cutting in a dry, shaded spot for 2–5 days.

When the cut end feels firm and callous you can stick it in the soil. If you skip this, the stem will likely rot in the dirt.

3. Plant and Wait

Place the calloused end of your cutting into a well-draining cactus or orchid mix. Don’t water it immediately! Wait about a week and then mist the soil lightly.

In 3–4 weeks, tug gently on the plant; if you feel resistance, roots have formed – yay!

Method 2: Water Propagation (The Visual Choice)

If you (or your kids!) love watching the magic of growth happen, water propagation is for you. It’s a great “science experiment” to do with teenagers, as they can see the root systems develop through the glass.

And personally, growing plants in water is my preferred method. I like having a mason jar full of various plant cuttings all growing roots together. I think it’s quick, easy and I like how it looks sitting out.

1. Prep the Stem

Just like the soil method, take a healthy cutting and let it callous for a few days.

2. Submerge

Place the Fishbone cactus propagation cuttings in a glass jar with just enough water to cover the bottom inch or two of the stem. Be sure to change the water weekly to keep it fresh and oxygenated.

3. Transition to Soil

Once the roots are about an inch long, it’s time to move the plant to a pot. Water roots are “fragile,” so keep the soil slightly more moist than usual for the first two weeks to help it adjust.

I will probably let this cutting’s roots grow a bit more before transferring to soil, but it’s getting close.

Pro-Tips for Propagated Growth

To make sure your Fishbone Cactus has strong and healthy growth, keep these three factors in mind – lighting, humidity and timing.

Lighting

Fishbone cacti love bright, indirect light. Direct afternoon sun can scorch those beautiful zig-zag leaves.

Humidity

Remember, this is a jungle cactus, not a desert cactus. They appreciate a bit more humidity than your average succulent.

Timing

The best time to propagate is during the growing season (Spring and Summer).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

You can read more about my Ric Rac cactus care in the blog post I wrote here, Fishbone Cactus Care. These are lovely plants and worth every bit of effort for their beautiful look. However, sometimes we all have a little problem with our plants, so let’s take a look at some of the common problems below…

• Rotting Stems: Usually caused by not letting the cutting callous long enough or overwatering.
• Shriveled Leaves: This usually means the plant is thirsty or the air is too dry.
• No Roots: Patience is key! Sometimes it can take up to six weeks depending on the temperature of your home.

Propagating a Fishbone Cactus is a rewarding, low-effort project that results in a stunning architectural plant. Whether you choose soil or water, the key is patience and a “hands-off” approach during the beginning callousing phase. If you follow these tips, you will grow gorgeous Zig Zag cactus plants for years to come!

Looking for more great plant care tips? Check some of these out…