Crinkle leaf plant (Adromischus cristatus)

Crinkle leaf plant

Crinkle leaf plant (*Adromischus cristatus*) is a succulent species that is often cultivated as a houseplant and considered easy to grow in pots. Crinkle leaf plant is also commonly known as Key Lime Pie. This species grows best in full sun or partial shade in situations where the soil is allowed to fully dry between watering. It can be toxic to animals and people. Crinkle leaf plant is endemic to South Africa's Eastern Cape.

Scientific classification

Species

Crinkle leaf plant (Adromischus cristatus)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Herb

Plant Type

5 cm

Spread

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

White, Green, Red

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Crinkle leaf plant

Distribution of Crinkle leaf plant

Distribution Map

The plant crinkle leaf plant is indigenous to the southern parts of Africa, thriving in arid and semi-arid regions. It has been successfully introduced and cultivated in various parts of the world, owed to its adaptability and popularity among enthusiasts of succulent and exotic flora.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rock outcrops, rocky slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

You can grow crinkle leaf plant alongside other succulents in rock or succulent gardens outdoors. The crinkly, cabbage-like leaves add interesting decoration to hot, well-drained gardens, especially during the flowering season of spring and summer. You can also grow this succulent in small containers to decorate patios and rooms.

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Quickly Identify Crinkle leaf plant

Upright, pale green, triangular leaves with wavy margins.

Dense, reddish-brown aerial roots on short, branching stems.

Discreet green tubular flowers with reddish-white tips on 8-inch stems.

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Care Guide for Crinkle leaf plant

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Crinkle leaf plant, native to South Africa's arid regions, thrives on minimal moisture with a watering schedule of once every three weeks. It prefers well-draining soil and benefits from drying periods between waterings, making it an ideal indoor plant for ornamental purposes.

Fertilize: Crinkle leaf plant benefits from seasonal fertilization with 'Succulents and Cacti Food.' Apply diluted bi-weekly during spring and summer, reducing to monthly in fall, with no fertilization in winter. Over-fertilization can damage crinkle leaf plant, so follow instructions to promote healthy growth without root burn.

Pruning: To maintain a beautiful shape, large succulent plants like crinkle leaf plant require pruning in spring and fall to remove dense or redundant branches. For propagation, cut a 5-6 leaf stem, apply sulfur powder to the wound, and plant it in slightly moist soil after healing.

Propagation: Crinkle leaf plant thrives through cuttings from healthy leaves. Lay the cut leaves on well-draining soil, mist lightly, and avoid direct sunlight. Patience is essential, as rooting may take weeks. With proper care, new resilient plants will emerge, showcasing crinkle leaf plant's unique characteristics.

Repotting: Crinkle leaf plant benefits from biennial repotting in early spring with fresh substrate for optimal growth. It forms compact rosettes and thrives in a larger, well-draining pot. After repotting, water sparingly and provide bright, indirect light to promote recovery and vigorous growth.

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Images of Crinkle leaf plant

Distribution of Crinkle leaf plant

Culture

Quickly Identify Crinkle leaf plant

Care Guide for Crinkle leaf plant

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