How to Grow Pedilanthus Plant (Devil’s Backbone)

Pedilanthus Plant

The Pedilanthus plant is a unique and visually striking succulent known for its vibrant foliage and interesting zigzag stems. This easy-care plant adds drama and texture to both indoor and outdoor spaces. With proper growing conditions, Pedilanthus makes an excellent addition to gardens and landscapes.

Overview of Pedilanthus Plant

Pedilanthus is a genus of flowering plants in the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. The genus contains around 15 different species, all native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas.

Some of the common names for pedilanthus plants include devil’s backbone, slipper flower, and lady’s slipper. The unusual common names refer to the zigzag stems and the distinctive flower shape of some pedilanthus varieties.

Pedilanthus plants are succulents with thick, fleshy stems and leaves. The foliage is arranged in an alternating or spiral pattern along the zigzagging stems. Leaf shapes vary among the different pedilanthus species, but are often elongated and pointed.

When happy, pedilanthus will bloom with small but showy tubular or slipper-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, yellow, or white.

Features and Characteristics

Pedilanthus offers some unique features that make it stand out:

• Zigzag stems – The stems have a distinct zigzag pattern, bending up and down at the nodes. This gives pedilanthus its common name of devil’s backbone plant.
  
• Interesting foliage – The leaves come in various shapes like long and pointed, paddle-shaped, or oval. Some varieties have variegated leaves with splashes of white, yellow, or red.
  
• Bright, tubular flowers – Pedilanthus produces colorful clusters of tubular or curved flowers that resemble slippers or shoes. Lady Slipper is another fitting common name.
  
• Drought tolerance – As succulents, pedilanthus plants store water in their thick stems and leaves. This makes them quite drought-resistant.
  
• Low maintenance – Overall, Pedilanthus plants are easy to grow and care for, perfect for beginner gardeners.
  
• Great container plant – The compact, shrubby growth habit lends itself well to containers and planters.

Growing and Caring for Pedilanthus

Providing the right care makes growing pedilanthus a breeze. Here are the key factors for healthy pedilanthus plants:

Light and Temperature Requirements

• Light – Bright light is essential, but avoid direct hot sunlight which can scorch the leaves. East or west-facing windows are ideal for indoor pedilanthus plants. Outdoors, place in part sun locations protected from afternoon sun.
• Temperature – Pedilanthus prefers warm temperatures between 60-90°F (15-32°C). Cooler temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause leaf drop.

Soil Needs

• Use a very fast-draining cactus potting mix or potting soil amended with additional perlite, sand, or gravel (up to 50% by volume).
• Good drainage is vital to prevent soggy soil, which can lead to root rot. Add gritty materials if needed to improve drainage.
• Pedilanthus tolerates slightly alkaline or acidic soil pH between 6.0-7.5.

Watering Needs

• Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Take care not to overwater.
• During the spring and summer growing season, water whenever the top few inches of soil become dry. Water less frequently in fall and winter.
• When watering, soak the soil thoroughly until excess drains from the bottom. Shallow, frequent watering encourages weak roots.

Fertilizing

• Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half strength every 2-4 weeks during spring through fall. Don’t fertilize in winter.
• Too much fertilizer can cause leaf burn or excessive, weak growth.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Prune back overgrown or leggy stems in early spring to shape the plant.
• Pinch or snip off spent flower blooms to encourage more flowering.
• Remove any dead or dying leaves and stems as needed to keep the plant looking tidy. Don’t remove more than 20% of the plant at once.

Varieties of Pedilanthus

There are several popular Pedilanthus species and cultivars to choose from:

Pedilanthus Tithymaloides (Devil’s Backbone)

This is the most common Pedilanthus variety grown. It has slender, green zigzag stems and long, pointed green leaves. During summer it produces clusters of scarlet-red tubular flowers. There are some variegated cultivars such as:

• Pedilanthus tithymaloides ‘Variegatus’ – green and white leaves
• Pedilanthus tithymaloides ‘Golden Glow’ – yellow leaf margins
  

Pedilanthus Bracteatus (Lady Slipper)

Also called redbird cactus, this variety has textured green leaves and showy bright red flowers that resemble slippers. It remains more compact than P. tithymaloides.

Cultivars include:

• Pedilanthus bracteatus ‘Alba’ – white flowers
• Pedilanthus bracteatus ‘Pink Beauty’ – pink flowers
  

Pedilanthus macrocarpus

This pedilanthus species has smooth, glossy green paddle-shaped leaves on red stems. The red and green foliage provides great contrast.

Some P. macrocarpus cultivars:

• ‘Luteus’ – yellow and green leaves
• ‘Variegatus’ – white variegated leaves

Propagating Pedilanthus

Pedilanthus can be easily propagated from cuttings or by seeds.

Propagation by Cuttings

Take 3-4 inch stem cuttings in spring using clean, sharp pruners. Allow cut ends to dry briefly before planting in well-draining soil. Keep cuttings warm and slightly moist until new growth emerges.

Propagation by Seeds

Sow fresh seeds in a sandy, porous seed starting mix. Barely cover with soil and keep warm and moist. Germination occurs in 2-3 weeks. Grow on seedlings in warm conditions with plenty of light. Harden off before transplanting.

Common Problems and Solutions

Growing pedilanthus is relatively problem-free but occasionally issues may arise:

Poor Growth

Causes include too little light, overwatering, or low temperatures. Ensure proper growing conditions and avoid overwatering.

Pests

Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects can sometimes be a nuisance. Remove pests by hand or use neem oil. Ensure good air circulation.

Diseases

Root rot from overwatering is the most common disease. Allow soil to dry between waterings and use very well-draining soil.

Leaf spot fungus can occur in humid conditions. Improve air circulation and avoid wet foliage.

Displaying Pedilanthus in the Garden

Pedilanthus provides unique visual interest and texture when incorporated into gardens:

Using in Beds and Borders

The colorful foliage and flowers of pedilanthus make an excellent accent or border plant. Plant in groups alongside hardy perennials, shrubs, and ornamental grasses.

Growing in Containers

Pedilanthus does well in containers and planters, indoors and outside. Display on patios, decks, windowsills, or anywhere its vibrant colors can be admired. Provide adequate drainage.

Conclusion

With its eye-catching zigzag stems and colorful flowers, pedilanthus offers year-round easy care and style. This interesting succulent thrives with basic care and bright light. Add pedilanthus to your indoor or outdoor living spaces to enjoy its unique, exotic charm.