Pencil Cactus Kleinia stapeliiformis

The pickle plant is a succulent herbaceous perennial that is native to South Africa. This plant is easy to grow, low-maintenance, and has gained popularity as a houseplant due to its unusual appearance. It is a member of the daisy family (Asteraceae). The specific epithet means "shaped like Stapelia," which is an unrelated genus in the dogbane family. (You can see the resemblance to Stapelia grandiflora.)

The plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate partial shade, but it should be protected from the hot afternoon sun during the summer. It needs 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight per day. The pickle plant prefers a well-drained, cactus or succulent potting mix. If planted outdoors, the soil should have a mixture of coarse sand and perlite to promote adequate drainage. It is not tolerant of standing water or overwatering. The plant prefers temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and a dry environment. It does not tolerate frost or high humidity. Pruning is not usually required, but if the plant has damaged or dead stems, they should be removed. Pruning should be done in the spring or early summer with sterilized shears or a knife. The plant can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. 

The stems are slender, cylindrical, erect, green with a white or purplish pattern. The stems branch, and older plants can have a somewhat bushy habit. The vestigial leaves are small, scale-like or spine-like, dark green and are borne along the ribs of the stems. The flowers appear in summer. They are showy, large and either red or deep orange. 

Consider adding the pickle plant to your houseplant collection. The plant is non-toxic and safe around pets and children.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Generally pest-free, but monitor for mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Overwatering can cause root rot and other fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Underwatering can cause the plant to shrivel or wilt. Brown or yellow spots on the leaves can be the result of excessive sunlight, particularly during the hottest part of the day.