Pickle Plant, Kleinia Stapeliiformis, Candle Stick Plant

Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing

The Pickle Plant, scientifically known as Kleinia stapeliiformis (and sometimes referred to by its older name, Senecio stapeliiformis), is a unique succulent native to South Africa. Its segmented, cylindrical stems that resemble pickles or a candelabra have earned it the common names “Pickle Plant” and “Candle Stick Plant.” It is a relatively low-maintenance plant, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts.

Here is a guide to caring for your Pickle Plant:

Light

• Bright is best: This succulent loves bright light. Place it in a location where it can receive several hours of direct sun, such as a south- or west-facing window.
• Avoid scorching: While it enjoys sun, be mindful of intense, direct afternoon sun, especially in hot climates, as this can cause the stems to get sunburned. In these conditions, some afternoon shade or filtered light is beneficial.
• Signs of insufficient light: If your plant isn’t getting enough light, it may become “leggy,” meaning the stems stretch out and become thin and spindly as they search for a light source. The stems may also lose their upright, architectural shape and start to flop over.

Watering

• Soak and dry: Like most succulents, the Pickle Plant is highly susceptible to root rot from overwatering. The best approach is to use the “soak and dry” method. Water the plant thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain completely from the bottom of the pot. Then, wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again.
• Drought-tolerant: The plant’s stems act as water reservoirs, allowing it to tolerate periods of drought. It’s better to underwater than to overwater.
• Seasonal changes: Water more frequently during the warmer growing season (spring and summer) and reduce watering significantly during the cooler, dormant season (fall and winter). You may only need to water once every few weeks in the winter.

Soil and Pot

• Well-draining is essential: A porous, fast-draining soil mix is crucial to prevent root rot. A specialized cactus or succulent mix works well. You can also create your own by mixing regular potting soil with materials like perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage.
• Drainage holes: Always use a pot with drainage holes at the bottom. This ensures that excess water can escape and the roots aren’t sitting in soggy soil.

Temperature and Humidity

• Warm temperatures: This plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C).
• Avoid frost: It is not frost-tolerant and should be brought indoors when temperatures drop below freezing.
• Low humidity: It is well-suited for a low-humidity environment, making it a great choice for most indoor settings.

Fertilizer

• Light feeder: The Pickle Plant is not a heavy feeder. You can fertilize it once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, or a specialized succulent fertilizer.
• No fertilizer in dormancy: Do not fertilize the plant during its dormant period in the fall and winter.

Pickle Plant, Kleinia Stapeliiformis, Candle Stick Plant Other Care Tips

• Pruning: Pruning is not generally necessary, but you can trim leggy or damaged stems to encourage a bushier, more compact growth habit. You can use the cuttings for propagation.
• Propagation: The Pickle Plant is easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Simply take a healthy cutting, allow the cut end to “callous over” (dry out and form a scab) for a few days, and then plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots develop.
• Toxicity: It is not considered toxic to humans or pets, but it’s always a good practice to keep plants out of the reach of children and animals.