Adromischus Cristatus, also known as the crinkle-leaf plant, is a slow-growing plant with small, thick leaves that feature a distinctive wavy edge.
The plant reaches a maximum height of about six inches. When it flowers, the flowers grow on a stem that can reach eight inches, and they’re small and reddish white. The plant grows best in USDA hardiness zones 9b to 10b.
Adromischus Cristatus Quick Facts
| Origin: | South Africa |
| Common Names: | Crinkle-Leaf Plant, Key lime pie |
| Toxicity: | Can be toxic to pets and humans |
| Watering: | Water sparingly |
| Light: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Temperature: | Minimum 20° F | – 6.7° C |
Watering
The succulent should be watered sparingly, and only during the growing season. This means that the plant should be watered spring through autumn, with almost no water during the winter. The soil should drain easily and should be allowed to dry out between each watering. Overwatering can cause problems such as rot or may cause leaves to fall off prematurely.
Light and Temperature Requirements
Crinkle-leaf plants, although frost hardy to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, are suited to warmer weather, and prefer temperatures about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. In colder areas, the plant can be grown inside. It prefers partial to full sun, so if it is grown inside, it needs a sunny area such as a windowsill. However, it is best to avoid direct sunlight, as this can damage the plant’s leaves. Any area that received indirect sunlight for up to six hours a day, indoors or out, is perfect.
Propagating
Adromischus Cristatus is relatively easy to propagate by using stem or leaf cuttings. Occasionally, the plant will naturally drop leaves, and these can be planted. Otherwise, leaves can be gently pulled or cut from the main body of the plant. Carefully select a stem that has an aerial root at the base. Cut along the stem, ensuring that no part of the leaf is left on the stem. Alternatively, a leaf can be twisted off. Allow the leaf to callous over for a day or two before planting. For successful propagation, and to ensure limited damage to the parent plant, it’s best to take cuttings in early spring.
Growing from Seed
Crinkle-leaf plants can also be grown from seed. Use a well-draining soil, and ensure that the soil remains moist. The seeds should not be pressed into the soil, but instead covered with a very thin layer of sand. Germination will occur best at warmer temperatures, between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. A warming pad can be used to encourage germination. Seeds should be kept in a well-lit area. Under these conditions, seeds should germinate within two to four weeks.
