The plant commonly known as the Pickle Plant is a popular, distinctly textured succulent. Its unique appearance makes it an unusual addition to any collection, often grown in containers or hanging baskets where its stems can trail. This drought-tolerant perennial is relatively easy to maintain, making it a great choice for new and experienced succulent owners alike.
Physical Description and Scientific Identity
The Pickle Plant’s scientific name is Delosperma echinatum, a member of the Aizoaceae family (the ice plant family). It is classified as a dwarf succulent shrublet that can reach a height of up to 18 inches, though it often remains smaller in containers. The most notable feature is the bright green, fleshy leaves, which are ovoid and cylindrical, resembling tiny pickles or cucumbers.
These leaves grow in pairs along slender, wiry stems and are covered in fine, translucent white bristles, which are specialized water vesicles. The Latin specific epithet “echinatum” translates to “prickly,” referring to these thick hairs covering the foliage and stems. When the plant blooms, typically from late spring into summer, it produces small, solitary, daisy-like flowers that are pale yellow to white in color.
Natural Origin and Growth Conditions
Delosperma echinatum is native to the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, thriving in arid and rocky environments at elevations ranging from 500 to 3,000 feet above sea level. This habitat consists of open areas within bushy scrub, where the plant grows in the understory.
The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil that mimics the rocky terrain of its origin. Its ability to store water in its fleshy leaves is a direct adaptation to the drought-like conditions and infrequent rainfall of its native range.
Cultivation and Care Guide
When growing a Pickle Plant indoors, providing ample light is a primary factor for its health and compact growth. It flourishes best in bright, indirect light for most of the day, though it can tolerate a few hours of gentle direct sun, such as from a south or west-facing window. Insufficient light exposure will cause the stems to stretch and become elongated, a condition known as etiolation.
The soil mix must be formulated for succulents or cacti to ensure rapid drainage, preventing the roots from sitting in moisture. Overwatering is the most common cause of failure, as it quickly leads to root rot. A deep, thorough watering should only be applied after the soil has dried out completely between sessions.
The Pickle Plant prefers average household temperatures, ideally between 68°F and 75°F (20°C and 24°C). It enters a period of dormancy during the winter, requiring significantly reduced watering frequency. The plant should be protected from temperatures below 40°F (5°C) to prevent cold damage. Fertilizing is rarely necessary, but a half-strength liquid feed designed for succulents can be applied once a month during the spring and summer growing season.