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Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Wednesday - February 28, 2007

From: Chattanooga, TN
Region: Southeast
Topic: Cacti and Succulents
Title: Selenicereus anthonyanus, Rickrack or Fishbone Cactus
Answered by: Nan Hampton and Joe Marcus

QUESTION:

A friend of mine gave me a plant he said was a rick rack plant. I have tried to research it on line with no luck and I don't know the scientific name...any help?

ANSWER:

We think your friend must have given you a Rickrack (or Ric Rac) Cactus, Selenicereus anthonyanus (Cryptocereus anthonyanus). Another common name for it is Fishbone Cactus. It is a native of Mexico and a beautiful plant—you have a very nice friend.

Here are some more links with information about it from:
Dave'sGarden.com
Rareflora.com
Paghat.com
Toptropicals.com

 

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