Senecio crassissimus aka Vertical Leaf
Taxonomy ID: 14687
Senecio crassissimus, also known as the propeller plant, vertical leaf, or lavender steps, is an evergreen leaf-succulent subshrub that belongs to the daisy family Asteraceae and is endemic to Madagascar. This plant can grow up to 80 cm tall and 40 cm wide, with thick erect stems that produce bright yellow daisy-like flowers at the tips from mid-summer to autumn. The most distinctive feature of this species is its vertical ranks of silver-grey laterally positioned purple-rimmed flattened fleshy leaves that resemble propellers of a plane. The leaves are also blue-green in color and have a thick, succulent texture. This plant has adapted to its harsh environment by changing the direction of its succulent leaf surfaces so that there is no flat surface directly facing the sun. When the sun is in its most intense position, directly overhead, the plant has just a leaf edge facing the sun to prevent moisture from evaporating. Vertical Leaf Senecio thrives in rocky, sun-sweltering environments and needs very little water to thrive. It does best in abundant sunlight and should be placed less than 3 feet from a window.
Common names
Vertical Leaf, Vertical Leaf SenecioMore information about Vertical Leaf
How difficult is it to take care of Vertical Leaf
Caring for Vertical Leaf is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
What is the growth pattern and size of Vertical Leaf?
New growth will sprout from the top of the Vertical Leaf as it grows vertically.
What is the region of origin of Vertical Leaf
Vertical Leaf’s native range is Worldwide.
What are the water needs for Vertical Leaf
Vertical Leaf does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
What is the right soil for Vertical Leaf
When growing the Vertical Leaf, it's important to use a potting soil that is well-draining and does not retain excessive moisture. An optimal soil mix should contain a high proportion of perlite or vermiculite for good drainage and some organic matter for nourishment. Simply add a few scoops of perlite to regular cactus soil to achieve this.
What is the sunlight requirement for Vertical Leaf
To ensure optimal growth, the Vertical Leaf prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
What's the right humidity for Vertical Leaf
Vertical Leaf plants thrive in dry environments, however, if you choose to provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on the leaves can create an ideal environment for certain types of harmful fungi.
How to fertilize Vertical Leaf
The Vertical Leaf grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.
Is Vertical Leaf toxic to humans/pets?
Vertical Leaf is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
What seasonal care does Vertical Leaf need?
During the cold period, it is common for Vertical Leaf to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
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