Ric Rac Cactus (Cryptocereus anthonyanus)


Ric Rac Cactus Plant Features

Ric rac cactus is one of the most exotic -- and easy -- cactus houseplants you grow! It shows off distinctive foliage -- the stems are serrated and lobed, like a backbone and have a thick, leathery texture that perfectly suits their dark green color. If it gets enough light, ric rac cactus will reward you with stunning pink and white orchid-like flowers. 

A trailing houseplant, ric rac cactus grows best in hanging baskets. In nature, it cascades dramatically from tree branches in tropical rain forests. 

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Ric Rac Cactus Growing Instructions

Grow ric rac cactus in a bright spot, but protected from too much direct sun. If you grow this plant in sunny south window, put up a sheer curtain to diffuse the light and help match the rain forest conditions this plant is used to. 

Like many cacti, ric rac cactus can go long periods without water, but grows best if you water when the top inch or so of the soil dries out. They don't tolerate drought the same way their desert-dwelling cousins do. That said, take care not to overwater ric rac cactus; it will rot if the soil stays moist or wet for extended periods of time. 

Because it comes from tropical rain forests, ric rac cactus likes more humidity than the average cactus. It grows just fine in average household humidity conditions. 

You don't need to worry about repotting ric rac cactus; it grows and blooms best when somewhat rootbound. Only repot every four or five years. 

Ric rac cactus is not intended for human or animal consumption. 
  • Water

    Medium water needs

  • Light

    Indoors: High light

  • Colors

    Green

    Pink

  • Special Features

    Purifies the air


Complement your Ric Rac Cactus

Christmas Cactus
Christmas cactus is related to ric rac cactus and likes similar conditions. If you can grow one, the other should thrive with it.

Orchid Cactus
Pair ric rac cactus with bold, dramatic orchid cactus for an unbelievable combo!