Devil's Backbone Care Instructions

Taxonomic Name: Pedilanthus tithymaloides

Spurge Family

Succulent Plant

The origin of this striking species' common name may seem a little obscure, but it almost certainly refers to the plant's zigzag stems and the stiff, fleshy leaves that project outward like broad, flattened spines. The variety of devil's backbone most often sold is `Variegatus', a particularly handsome form with medium-green leaves marked with white and red highlights.

While the plant is indeed a succulent, it needs more watering than a cactus or aloe does.

How to Care for Your Plant:

LIGHT: Some direct sunlight, preferably in the morning, is best. Placement in an unobstructed eastern or western window, or in a partially screened southern window, is good).

WATERING: Make sure the plant's soil surface becomes entirely dry between waterings; but when the time does come to water, do so thoroughly. At least a little water should come out of the pot's bottom drainage holes, but the plant should not stand in saucer water for more than ten minutes.

FEEDING: Feed sparingly, and only during active growth or flowering. Use an all purpose houseplant fertilizer at half the concentration and frequency listed in the product directions.

POTENTIAL PROBLEMS: Underwatering often causes leaf yellowing and leaf drop; overwatering may trigger root and stem rot.