The Pickle Plant (Delosperma echinatum) is a unique succulent known for its distinctive foliage. Its small, plump, textured leaves strikingly resemble miniature pickles, making it a captivating addition to any indoor plant collection or rock garden.
Understanding the Pickle Plant
The Pickle Plant (Delosperma echinatum) belongs to the Aizoaceae family of succulents. Its cylindrical leaves are covered with fine, bristly hairs and store water, an adaptation common among desert and arid-region flora. Native to the Eastern Cape of South Africa, it thrives in bright light and well-draining conditions.
Pickle Plant Care
Light Requirements
Pickle Plants thrive in bright, direct sunlight, needing at least six hours daily to maintain their compact form and vibrant color. A south-facing window indoors usually provides enough light. When moving a plant from lower light to full sun, gradually acclimate it over several days to prevent sunburn. Insufficient light causes etiolation, where the plant stretches and becomes leggy with sparse leaf growth.
Watering Practices
As a succulent, the Pickle Plant stores water in its leaves, making it highly tolerant of dry conditions but susceptible to overwatering. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot bottom, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. This “soak and dry” method prevents root rot. Monitor soil moisture by inserting a finger an inch or two deep to determine the next watering cycle.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining soil mix is essential for a Pickle Plant’s health, preventing waterlogging. A specialized succulent or cactus mix, often containing sand, perlite, or pumice, provides aeration and drainage. If using standard potting soil, amend it with an equal part of perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Pots must always have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
Temperature and Humidity
Pickle Plants prefer warm temperatures, ideally 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C) during their active growing season. They tolerate cooler temperatures, but prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C) can cause stress and damage. These succulents are well-adapted to dry air and do not require high humidity, making them suitable for typical indoor environments. High humidity can contribute to fungal issues, especially with poor air circulation.
Fertilizing
Pickle Plants are not heavy feeders and require minimal fertilization. During the active growing season (spring and summer), apply a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks. Dilute the fertilizer to half or quarter strength to avoid over-fertilization and root burn. Withhold all fertilization during the plant’s dormant period in fall and winter.
Propagating Pickle Plants
Propagating Pickle Plants is straightforward, typically done through stem cuttings. Select healthy, non-flowering stems at least 2 to 3 inches long. Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to make a clean cut just below a leaf node. After taking cuttings, allow them to air dry in a warm, dry place for several days until the cut end forms a callus. This calloused layer prevents rot when planted.
Once calloused, insert the cut end about an inch deep into a well-draining succulent potting mix. Lightly mist the soil every few days, rather than watering deeply, to encourage root development without rot. Place the pot in bright, indirect light. Roots typically form within two to four weeks, after which new plants can be watered more regularly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When a Pickle Plant’s leaves shrivel, it often indicates underwatering, as the plant uses its stored water reserves. If leaves turn yellow and become mushy, this usually signals overwatering, leading to cellular breakdown. Leggy growth, characterized by elongated stems with widely spaced leaves, is a clear sign of insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location helps prevent further stretching and encourages compact growth.
Pest infestations are uncommon but can occur. Mealybugs may appear as small, cottony masses on stems and leaf axils, while spider mites might cause fine webbing and tiny discolored spots on the foliage. Both can be treated by wiping affected areas with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by applying an insecticidal soap specifically formulated for succulents. Root rot, a severe condition from prolonged overwatering and poor drainage, causes mushy stems and a foul odor from the soil. In such cases, removing the plant, trimming away rotted roots, and repotting in fresh, dry soil with improved drainage may save it.