Crinkle Leaf Plant (Adromischus cristatus)

Crinkle Leaf Plant

Adromischus cristatus

Fleshy crinkled leaves hold desert softness like folded silk. Succulent perennial; common names: Crinkle Leaf Plant, Key Lime Pie Plant.

Partial sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerate partial shade, avoid intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorching
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Watering Allow soil to fully dry between waterings; reduce frequency significantly in winter to avoid root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; protect from frost below 5°C to prevent leaf damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Thick, fleshy, obovate leaves with crinkled, ruffled edges; pale green with red-tipped margins
  • Flower: Slender, upright stems bearing clusters of small, tubular, cream to pale yellow flowers
  • Stem: Short, woody, branching stems forming tight clumps over time
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when top 2–3 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid waterlogging the rosette

Fertilization

Diluted succulent fertilizer every 6 weeks. Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote compact growth without stretching

Eggshell powder topdress:Grind dried eggshells to fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer on soil surface every 3 months to boost calcium levels without burning roots
Pruning
  • Remove dry, dead leaves from the base to prevent pest infestations and improve air circulation
  • Trim leggy stems in early spring to encourage compact, bushy growth
  • Snip off spent flower stalks after blooming to conserve the plant's energy for new leaf growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for window sills, rock gardens, and small terrarium displays