The Devil Heads Plant, scientifically known as Huernia schneideriana, is a captivating succulent that has garnered attention for its unique and somewhat eerie appearance. Its distinctive look, which gives rise to its common name, references its unusual, dark flowers.
Identifying the Devil Heads Plant
Huernia schneideriana presents a distinctive appearance with its segmented stems and unusual flowers. The stems are typically dark green to reddish-brown, four-angled, and can grow to about 18 inches long and 0.6 inches thick, often having a glaucous or waxy coating. These fleshy stems are adorned with small, tooth-like tubercles along their margins, which, despite their appearance, are smooth to the touch. The stem color can shift depending on sun exposure and environmental conditions.
The plant’s most striking feature is its “devil head” flowers, which are bell-shaped and appear near the base of the stems, typically in fall, spring, and summer. These star-shaped blooms, measuring around 1 to 2 inches in diameter, are brownish-red on the outside and velvety reddish-black on the inside, often with a deep purple-black center. While their appearance is unique, some find their scent to be unpleasant, described as a not-so-sweet or even carrion-like fragrance, which helps attract pollinators. Huernia schneideriana belongs to the Huernia genus within the Apocynaceae family, formerly known as Asclepiadaceae.
Essential Care for Devil Heads Plant
The Devil Heads Plant thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat where it often grows under other plants. While it can tolerate some direct sunlight, prolonged exposure to intense sun can cause the stems to develop a protective reddish or purple pigmentation and may even lead to scorching. If grown indoors, a spot near a window that receives at least six hours of bright, indirect light daily is suitable.
Well-draining soil is important for this succulent to prevent root rot, which is a common issue for Huernia schneideriana. A specialized cactus or succulent mix, often containing pumice, perlite, and sand, provides the necessary drainage and aeration. Some growers recommend a mix of 50 percent pumice or perlite, 25 percent peat or organic mulch, and 25 percent sand, or a soil that is about 30% soil and 70% grit. Shallow containers, particularly clay pots, are also beneficial as they allow the soil to dry out more quickly.
Watering should follow the “drench and dry” method, where the soil is allowed to dry out completely between waterings. When watering, do so thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. During its dormant period in fall and winter, watering frequency should be significantly reduced. Overwatering, especially in cool or damp conditions, is a leading cause of plant decline.
The Devil Heads Plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 50°F (10°C) and 80°F (27°C). It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing conditions. Average indoor humidity levels are generally sufficient, as this succulent is adapted to arid conditions and does not require high humidity. Good air circulation around the plant is also beneficial. Fertilization can be done lightly during the active growing season in spring and summer, using a diluted, balanced succulent fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
Encouraging Blooms and Propagation
A period of cooler temperatures or reduced watering during winter can help mimic its natural dormancy cycle, which can stimulate flowering in the subsequent growing season.
Propagating Huernia schneideriana is straightforward, primarily done through stem cuttings. To propagate, take a healthy piece of stem from the main plant. After cutting, it is important to allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for a few days before planting; this helps prevent rot. Once calloused, the cutting can be planted in a well-draining succulent or cactus soil mix, not too deep. Keep the soil lightly moist and place the cutting in a warm, bright location with indirect sun. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, indicating successful propagation.
Troubleshooting Common Devil Heads Plant Issues
Overwatering is a frequent problem, often leading to mushy stems and plant collapse due to root rot. If rot is present, affected parts should be pruned away with a clean, sterile tool, and the plant allowed to heal before replanting.
Conversely, underwatering can cause the stems to appear wrinkled or shriveled. While Huernia schneideriana is drought-tolerant, consistent prolonged dryness can stress the plant. Gradually increasing watering can help restore turgor, but care should still be taken to avoid over-saturation.
Pests like mealybugs and spider mites can occasionally affect Huernia schneideriana. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and promptly addressing infestations helps prevent their spread.
Safety Considerations
Huernia schneideriana is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. While there are no widespread reports of adverse effects from ingestion, it is always a good practice to exercise caution. Keeping all houseplants out of reach of small children and curious pets helps prevent any accidental consumption and potential mild gastrointestinal upset, as even non-toxic plant material can cause minor digestive disturbances.