Scientific Name
Adromischus cristatus (Haw.) Lem.
Common Name(s)
Crinkle Leaf Plant, Key Lime Pie
Synonym(s)
Adromischus cristatus var. cristatus, Cotyledon cristata
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Kalanchoideae
Genus: Adromischus
Etymology
The specific epithet "cristatus" (pronounced "kris-TAY-tus") means "tufted, crested, plumed" and refers to the crested look of the undulating tip margins of the leaves of this species.
Origin
Adromischus cristatus is native to South Africa (Eastern Cape).
Description
Adromischus cristatus is a small, slow-growing succulent with branched stems that bear triangular, pale green leaves with an undulate tip. The stems can grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) long. The leaves are covered in tiny hairs, measuring up to 2 inches (5 cm) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide.
The flowers are tubular, green-tipped, and reddish-white, and appear on stalks that can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) long.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 10b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 40°F (4.4°C).
How to Grow and Care
Many species are easy to grow in any free-draining, gritty compost. Their compact habit allows a collection to be maintained in a small space, and they grow well on any sunny window ledge or the top shelf of the greenhouse. Water mostly from spring to fall; let them dry out between waterings. Adromischus tolerates cool, frost-free conditions during the winter if kept dry. It is also to keep water off the foliage during the winter. Mealybugs and vine weevils can be discouraged with a systemic insecticide.
Adromischus can be propagated from a single leaf, which should be placed against the pot's side so that the stem ends touch the compost. Some species drop their leaves easily, and although each leaf will form a new plant, it can be challenging to grow a large specimen. In other cases, leaves for propagation must be carefully detached with a sharp knife.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Adromischus.
Varieties and Cultivars
- Adromischus cristatus var. clavifolius
- Adromischus cristatus var. schonlandii
- Adromischus cristatus var. zeyheri
- Adromischus cristatus 'Indian Clubs'
Links
- Back to genus Adromischus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
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