The crinkle leaf plant’s hardy nature makes it perfect for both plant enthusiasts and beginners. It is essential to water regularly from spring to fall, reducing moisture in the winter. Feed the plant in the spring and summer, providing ample warmth. You can prune your plant using your fingers when you notice dry leaves and adjust watering practices if you see falling or yellowing leaves.
Light
While they can tolerate partial shade, crinkle leaf plants prefer full sun, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight. However, during the hottest parts of the year, they benefit from shade in the harsh afternoon sun. Crinkle leaf plants should be placed near a bright, south-facing window when grown indoors. You also can sunlight with an artificial growing light.
Soil
Crinkle leaf plants require well-drained soil, sandy soil. Typically, standard potting mixes are too dense, so a blend made especially for cacti and succulents is best for these plants.
Water
Crinkle leaf plants don’t need excessive water to survive, and overwatering can lead to root rot and leaf loss. Wait until the soil has dried out between waterings. Crinkle leaf plants usually require watering every one to two weeks from spring to fall. Reduce watering over the winter only to just enough moisture to keep the leaves plump. It’s much easier for a crinkle leaf plant to recover from underwatering than overwatering.
Temperature and Humidity
Warm, dry conditions are ideal for crinkle leaf plants, and the average household temperature and humidity are usually adequate. The plants prefer temperatures above 50˚F and can tolerate temperatures down to 20˚F, though prolonged frost and cold will eventually damage or kill them. Protect your plant from extreme temperature swings caused by drafts, air conditioners, and heaters.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your crinkle leaf plant monthly in the spring and summer with a liquid fertilizer designed for cacti and succulents. Do not fertilize during the fall or winter months.
Types of Crinkle Leaf Plants
Adromischus cristatus var. clavifoliusAdromischus cristatus var. schonlandii:Adromischus cristatus var. zeyheri
Pruning
Like all large succulents, the crinkle leaf plant may need occasional pruning. It’s best to prune at the beginning of the growing season by pulling away dead leaves with your fingers. However, you may prune whenever you find it necessary.
Propagating Crinkle Leaf Plants
Crinkle leaf plants can be propagated from seeds, though it’s generally easier to propagate with leaf cuttings. Here’s how to propagate a crinkle leaf plant:
How to Grow Crinkle Leaf Plants From Seeds
You can easily grow crinkle leaf plants from seeds. Fill a pot with moist, well-drained soil. Place (don’t press) the seeds onto the soil and cover them with a thin layer of sand. Make sure the plant is growing at a temperature between 68˚F and 72˚F. The seeds should germinate within two weeks.
Potting and Repotting Crinkle Leaf Plants
When choosing a pot for your crinkle leaf plant, opt for one with ample drainage holes. An unglazed pot is ideal because it will allow excess moisture to escape through its walls and drainage holes. This slow-growing plant won’t need frequent repotting and can grow in cramped pots. Once you see roots growing out of the container and the leaves spilling over the sides, move your plant to a slightly larger pot. Gently remove it, and plant it at the same depth in the new pot filled with fresh potting mix.
Overwintering
Overwinter your crinkle leaf plant when grown indoors by maintaining warm temperatures and access to plentiful sunlight. The plant can resist some coldness but will die below if in freezing temperatures. If your area is experiencing a brief frost, cover your plant or place it in a temporary greenhouse. Still, moving your crinkle leaf plant indoors during cold weather is best.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
While crinkle leaf plants generally don’t attract pests, they may be affected by mealybugs and vine weevils. The plant is prone to root rot, which can cause extensive damage to its health. Root rot is typically caused by overwatering or underwatering.
Common Problems With Crinkle Leaf Plants
The crinkle leaf plant is generally easygoing, but poor watering practices can lead to several issues. Pay attention to the health of your plant through all stages of growth.
Leaf Loss
If your crinkle leaf plant receives too much water, its leaves can swell and drop. In addition, you may notice its stem is puffy. To correct this, refrain from watering your plant until its soil feels completely dry before watering again. Consider transferring it to a new pot or adjusting its soil composition.
Withering
Withered leaves on a crinkle plant are usually caused by underwatering. The withering often begins at the top of the plant and spreads downward. You can fix the issue by watering more frequently and being mindful of extreme summer temperatures.
Yellow Leaves
Both underwatering and overwatering can cause yellow leaves on your crinkle plant. To determine which is causing the yellowing, examine the root of the plant for swelling or the mushiness of its leaves. You’re likely underwatering if the leaves are withered and the soil is dry. If the leaves are swollen to the touch, you’re likely overwatering your plant.
