Scientific Name
Kleinia stapeliiformis (E.Phillips) Stapf
Common Name(s)
Pickle Plant, Stapelia Stemmed Senecio, Stapelioid Kleinia, Trailing Jade, Spider Plant, Inch Worm, Candle Stick, Candle Plant
Synonym(s)
Senecio stapeliiformis
Scientific Classification
Family: Asteraceae
Subfamily: Asteroideae
Tribe: Senecioneae
Subtribe: Senecioninae
Genus: Kleinia
Origin
Kleinia stapeliiformis is native to South Africa (Eastern Cape).
Description
Kleinia stapeliiformis, also known as Senecio stapeliiformis, is an attractive succulent that has jointed pencil-like stems with purple-green patterns and soft spines along the sides. The stems are soft, fleshy, smooth, brittle, cylindrical, and can measure up to 10 inches (25 cm) long and 0.8 inches (2 cm) in diameter. They are dark green, often with an unusual pinkish tinge, silvery-green striations, and purple arrowhead markings below each node. The stems have 4 to 6 or rarely more grooves and scale leaves arranged along the ribs.
The flowers are large, hawkweed-like, and red or orange.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °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 will need to 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 and constant moisture to germinate. Cuttings are easier and faster. Cut during the growing season, from early spring to fall. Root in sandy soil in containers.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Senecio.
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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