Adromischus filicaulis

Botanical Name —  Adromischus filicaulis

Common Name — 

Plant Family —  Crassulaceae 

Background

Adromischus filicaulis is native to western South Africa.  In their natural habitat,  they grow on rocky granitic hills in high altitudes.  To mimic this microclimate at home, we can provide them with a gritty well drained potting mix and an arid environment. These low-lying plants are slow growing and have shiny grey green leaves with reddish rust colored spots.  This plant is highly variable. 

Growth Requirements

Sun

• Give Adromischus filicaulis plenty of direct sun with partial shade during the harshest afternoon hours. It will not tolerate full shade.
• They thrive in morning or late afternoon sun. If possible give them a spot in a sill with south-eastern or south-western exposure. 

Temperature/ Humidity 

• This arid plant likes high temperatures and low humidity. It will thrive in temperatures above 75°F, but avoid consistent temperatures below 45°F. Keep it indoors in a sunny windowsill during cooler months. 

Water

• This plant is super low-maintenance from a watering standpoint. Succulent leaves retain plenty of moisture so be sure to let the soil dry out completely in between waterings then water thoroughly, fully saturating the soil. 
• In the winter, when these plants are not actively growing, ease up on watering even more. 

Soil/Roots

• Adromischus filicaulis grows best in a fast draining soil mix. Use cacti or succulent soil, or amend potting soil with sand or pumice up to 50% to improve drainage.

Flowering

• Small greenish-white with a splash of pink tubular flowers are borne on a flowering spike in Spring or early Summer.

Fertilization

• Fertilization is not necessary, but if you are going to use one be sure to use one specifically made for cacti and succulents.
• Fertilize once every two weeks during the active growing season. Never fertilize in winter.

Propagation

• These plants will propagate easily by leaf cuttings.  Let leaf callus before planting in a gritty cactus/succulent mix.  Try to keep the leaf upright so that the roots are able to grow downward. Keep warm and moist while rooting.  

Health

Diseases

• This plant is most vulnerable to mealybugs and occasionally scale. 
• Root rot can occur if it is overwatered. 

Maintenance (pruning, legginess, repotting)

• These plants prefer to be root bound, so you’ll only need to repot once every two or three years.
• Handle with care since leaves can be detached easily.

Toxicity

• Adromischus filicaulis are known to be toxic if ingested by animals and humans. Keep out of reach of children and pets.