Scientific Name
Kleinia pendula (Forssk.) DC.
Common Name(s)
Inch Worm, Inchworm Plant, Tapeworm Plant
Synonym(s)
Cacalia pendula, Notonia pendula, Senecio pendulus
Scientific Classification
Family: Asteraceae
Subfamily: Asteroideae
Tribe: Senecioneae
Subtribe: Senecioninae
Genus: Kleinia
Description
Kleinia pendula, also known as Senecio pendulus, is a creeping succulent with green patterned stems and showy red flower heads. The stems are fleshy, decumbent, prostrate or hanging, jointed, and usually arching and rooting where touching the soil. They can reach up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length and 0.8 inches (2 cm) in diameter. The stems are green to bronze-green with patterns of purplish or dark green lines. The leaves are awl-shaped and scale-like and can grow up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) long, becoming rigid or spinescent with a stiff, persistent base.
The flower heads are solitary and composed of numerous tiny bright red florets. They appear in late winter or early spring on slender stalks that can grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) long.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Established Senecios are extremely drought tolerant. They need some water during the summer but do not leave the soil wet for prolonged periods. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings in the winter when they are somewhat dormant. Since they are growing in sandy soil, nutrients must be replenished. Fertilize annually, but lightly. Too much fertilizer will cause a lot of leggy growth.
Taller varieties can get floppy. You can prune them back to where the stem is firm in early spring. You can even root the cuttings.
Plants can be divided or repotted in early spring. If you are growing them in containers, they enjoy spending the summer outdoors. Wait until there is no danger of frost and move them back indoors in the fall.
Senecio can be grown from either seed or cuttings. Seeds prefer warm temperatures, around 55 °F (13 °C), and constant moisture to germinate. Cuttings are easier and faster. Cut during the growing season, early spring to fall. Root in sandy soil, in containers.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Senecio.
Origin
Kleinia pendula is native to Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, and Yemen.
Links
- Back to genus Kleinia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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