bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well) for at least 6 hours a day indoors. A spot within a foot of a south-facing window is ideal. Direct afternoon sun can burn the leaves, but gentle morning sun is fine. Insufficient light causes the plant to stretch and lose its compact, attractive shape.Light

Use the soak-and-dry method: water thoroughly (water until it drains out the bottom. Empty the saucer after 30 minutes so the roots are not sitting in water) until it runs out the drainage holes, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. During the growing season (spring and summer), this typically works out to every 7 to 10 days. In fall and winter, stretch that to every 2 to 3 weeks or longer. Overwatering is the fastest way to kill this plant - when in doubt, wait another few days.Water

Low humidity is fine. This is a succulent from a summer-dry South African climate and does not want a steamy bathroom. Average indoor humidity of 30 to 50% is perfectly comfortable.Humidity

Prefers 65 to 80°F (18 to 27°C). Keep above 50°F (10°C) in winter. Not frost-hardy - bring it inside if nighttime temperatures are dropping toward 40°F (4°C).Temperature

easyDifficulty

Crinkle-Leaf Plant

Adromischus cristatus

Easy

Adromischus cristatus is a species of succulents from the family Crassulaceae, endemic to the eastern cape of South Africa. It is a perennial with short erect branches 20–50 mm long covered with fine aerial roots. Leaves are green to gray-green, with undulating margin, and generally measuring 20–40 × 5–13 mm. During the springtime, it sends up long narrow stalks for its flowers, which are tubular in shape and white in color with hints of red. Common names for this plant include "Key Lime Pie" and "Crinkle Leaf Plant."

Care Guide

How to grow Crinkle-Leaf Plant

Light

bright indirect light (3-6 feet

Water

Use the soak-and-dry method: water

Humidity

50%

Temperature

Prefers 65 to 80°F (18 to 27°C).

Soil

50%

Propagation

Leaf cuttings are the easiest method.

Leaf cuttings are the easiest method. Gently twist a healthy leaf from the stem - you want a clean pull with no torn tissue left behind. Let it callous for 1 to 2 days on a dry surface, then lay it on top of barely moist succulent mix. Do not bury it. Tiny rosettes and roots appear in 2 to 6 weeks. Do not water heavily until roots are established. Stem cuttings root similarly quickly. Seeds can be started in late winter but germinate slowly.

Common Problems

Root rot from overwatering is

Root rot from overwatering is the primary killer - soggy soil for even a few days can be fatal. Mealybugs are the most common pest, appearing as white cottony clusters in leaf axils; treat with isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab or insecticidal soap spray. The aerial roots on the stems are normal and healthy - do not mistake them for a pest. Etiolation (stretching toward light) means the plant needs more brightness.

Did You Know

Fun Facts

The species name cristatus is Latin for 'crested' or 'tufted,' referring specifically to the raised, wavy crest along the top edge of each leaf — the same word used to describe a bird's crest or a cockatoo's plume.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Conflicting information exists online. The ASPCA does not list Adromischus in their toxic plant database, and several pet-focused plant sources classify it as safe. Some succulent care sites caution that it may be mildly toxic if ingested. As a precaution, keep it out of reach of pets and children, and consult a vet if ingestion occurs.

Crinkle-Leaf Plant

How to grow Crinkle-Leaf Plant

Fun Facts

Toxic to pets

Sources

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