Kleinia plants, members of the Asteraceae (daisy) family, are a diverse group of succulents. Recognized for their distinctive, often sculptural forms, they are popular ornamental additions. Their fleshy stems or leaves store water, allowing them to thrive in arid conditions.
Understanding Kleinia Varieties
The genus Kleinia offers a range of species, each with unique visual appeal.
Kleinia stapeliiformis, often known as the Candle Plant or Pickle Plant, features thick, cylindrical stems that can grow upright or slightly trailing, reaching lengths of up to 12 inches (30 cm). Its green stems have small tubercles, resembling pickles or cucumbers. This species can produce large red or deep orange flowers, though flowering indoors is less common.
Kleinia neriifolia, also referred to as Canary Islands Spurge or Verode, forms articulated branches, giving them a segmented, almost sausage-like appearance. Its thick, elongated leaves, up to 5 inches (12 cm) long, grow in crowded circles at the branch tops. This species can grow quite large, reaching heights of 10 feet (3 meters) or more, and produces fragrant grey-white flowers.
Kleinia fulgens, known as Coral Senecio, stands out for its striking orange-red flowers and fleshy, blue-green leaves. This plant grows from a creeping tuberous rootstock and can reach up to 2 feet (60 cm) in height. Its broad, flattened, fleshy leaves display a grey-green color with a purple margin. Flowers appear late autumn to winter, attracting pollinators.
Kleinia Care Essentials
Successful cultivation relies on understanding their specific environmental preferences. Providing the right conditions ensures healthy growth.
Light Requirements
Kleinia plants require bright light to full sun for optimal growth and vibrant coloration. Indoors, place them near a south or west-facing window for ample light. While they tolerate some partial shade, prolonged low light can result in leggy growth. Outdoors, provide bright, direct sunlight for at least 4 to 5 hours daily, protecting from intense afternoon sun in hot climates to prevent scorching.
Watering Practices
As succulents, Kleinia plants store water in their stems and leaves, adapting to infrequent but thorough watering. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot. When watering, soak thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s bottom, allowing excess to drain away. Overwatering is a common issue leading to rot; it is safer to underwater. During cooler, dormant winter periods, reduce watering significantly to sustain the plant.
Soil and Potting
Well-draining soil prevents waterlogging and root rot. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix provides ideal drainage. For a custom mix, combine equal parts commercial succulent mix with perlite or coarse sand for optimal drainage and aeration. Pots must have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container, choosing a slightly larger pot with drainage.
Temperature and Humidity
Kleinia plants prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18-29 degrees Celsius). They are tolerant of dry air and thrive in low humidity environments, mimicking their natural arid habitats. Conversely, they are sensitive to frost and do not tolerate cold temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius), especially if the soil is moist, which can lead to rot. Good air circulation prevents moisture buildup and maintains healthy conditions.
Fertilization
Kleinia plants are not heavy feeders and require minimal fertilization. During their active growing season (spring to late summer), apply a diluted succulent or balanced houseplant fertilizer. Fertilize once every one to three months during this period. Over-fertilization can lead to weak, leggy growth, so apply sparingly and dilute according to package instructions.
Propagating Kleinia
Propagating Kleinia is straightforward, most commonly achieved through stem cuttings, allowing for easy expansion or sharing.
Select a healthy, mature stem. Using clean, sharp shears or a knife, cut just below a leaf node, ensuring the cutting is a few inches long. Allow the cut end to dry and callus for a few days to prevent rot.
Once callused, plant in a well-draining succulent or cactus mix, gently inserting the end upright. Keep soil lightly moist, not saturated, and place in bright, indirect light.
Roots develop within weeks to months. Once established, care for the new plant like a mature Kleinia.
Common Kleinia Problems
While Kleinia plants are low-maintenance, they can encounter issues, often stemming from improper care.
Root rot occurs due to overwatering or consistently wet soil, with signs like mushy stems or general decline. To prevent, ensure well-draining soil that dries completely between waterings. If suspected, remove affected parts and repot into fresh, dry soil.
Etiolation, or stretching, is characterized by elongated, weak stems and sparse foliage, occurring when the plant lacks light. Moving the Kleinia to a brighter location can reverse this and encourage more compact growth.
Kleinia plants can also be susceptible to pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Regularly inspecting for insects or sticky residue helps identify infestations early. Address pests with horticultural sprays or by gently wiping them off with a damp cloth.