Pedilanthus tithymaloides is a common perennial succulent whose name means foot-shaped or slipper flower. However, the flowers are not a significant part of this plant.
The Pedilanthus tithymaloides is also known by two other scientific names:
- Euphorbia ithymaloides L
- Tithymalus tithymaloides.
It is relatively easy to grow, making it a perfect plant for novice gardeners.
In its native Central America, it is often a flowering shrub outside.
Therefore, growing outdoors in zones 9 and 10 is suitable to replicate the plant’s tropical needs. However, it is most common as a houseplant or in the greenhouse everywhere else.
The plant is known for growing in a zigzag pattern, which lends itself to one of its common names, the Zigzag plant.
The thick stems grow in a zigzag pattern between each leaf. The variegated leaves take on a reddish color under inadequate lighting conditions.
Not only is it unique and relatively easy to maintain, but the plant can live for many years.
It’s best to hold off on this unique plant if you have curious cats, dogs, or little children who might ingest any part of the plant.
Consuming the plant will likely cause vomiting and diarrhea. Even a little contact with the plant’s sap can cause eye irritation and pain.
Some of the common names of Pedilanthus Tithymaloides are:
- Devil’s Backbone
- Redbird Cactus
- Redbird Flower
- Zigzag Plant
- Jacob’s Ladder
- Milk bush
- Caribbean Slipper Spurge
- Slipper Flower
- Slipperplant
Quick Facts On Pedilanthus Tithymaloides
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Temperature: 50° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Water regularly in summer; less water needed in winter
- Fertilizer: Unnecessary
- Propagation: Cuttings
- Common Problems: Mold, mildew, scale, spider mites, yellow leaves, leaf drop
Pedilanthus Tithymaloides Care
What Does The Devil’s Backbone Plant Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
The Devil’s Backbone plant is unique in its growing style.
Its stem zigzags after each leaf, giving it an unusual pattern. When a new leaf forms, the stem grows in the opposite direction.
The leaves are unusual and have a greenish or greyish color. They are also known to curl, giving the plant a unique appearance.
The sap is a milky white, but be careful not to touch it. While some say it can be medicinal, it causes rash and discomfort in most people.
Pedilanthus Tithymaloides grows into a 3′ to 4′ feet tall bushy plant, whether you keep it indoors or out.
When Does The Devil’s Backbone Plant Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The Devil’s Backbone flowers in the summer, but the blooms aren’t why people buy this plant.
Ironically, the plant’s slipper- or shoe-shaped red bracts are often more impressive and unique than the flowers themselves.
The flowers have no scent.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
Because the plant’s native habitat is topical, the Devil’s Backbone does well in warmer climates, such as zones 9 and 10.
However, the plant will fare best indoors or in a greenhouse in other climates.
The plant thrives in temperatures from 50° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit, which is why most people keep it as a houseplant.
Like many plants, the Devil’s Backbone doesn’t appreciate direct sunlight because the leaves can burn.
Therefore, bright indirect light is best for a happy, well-adjusted plant.
How And When To Water And Fertilize The Devil’s Backbone Plant?
The Devil’s backbone plant needs regular watering in the summertime and less water in the winter.
During the summer growing season, the plant thrives on a monthly feeding. Feedings aren’t necessary for the winter.
What Is The Best Soil For Pedilanthus Tithymaloides, And When Should You Transplant?
The Devil’s Backbone plant loves well-draining soil, such as a cactus potting mix with added perlite or vermiculite.
Well-draining soil will ensure that the plant’s roots receive adequate moisture but aren’t overwatered.
While you may be tempted to repot your pedilanthus tithymaloides annually, it’s unnecessary.
However, you probably want to repot your plant every 2 to 3 years to give it fresh soil and nutrients with a slightly larger pot.
Does Pedilanthus Tithymaloides Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
If you want Pedilanthus Tithymaloides to have a bushy appearance, it’s a good idea to pinch off the tips of the plant when it’s young.
Pinching your young plant will encourage bushier growth.
How To Propagate The Zigzag Plant?
Many people find root cuttings the easiest way to propagate their Zigzag plant.
However, you might need some patience, as the time from beginning to end will be at least two months.
Here’s what to do:
- In early summer, cut a stem about 3″ to 4″ inches long from new growth on your plant.
- Make sure to use clean shears or a knife.
- Allow the cutting to dry and callous over.
- While not required, you may succeed with dipping your cutting in rooting hormone. Otherwise, you can move to the next step.
- Place the cutting in moistened, well-draining soil.
It will take a few weeks for your cutting to root. Be patient!
Once it roots, you can then move it to a new container.
Redbird Cactus Pests And Diseases
Like a lot of plants, many Redbird Cactus pests and diseases are often caused by:
- Overwatering or underwatering
- Too much light or not enough
- Not enough humidity
For example, grey mold can appear if the plant sits in cold, damp soil.
Let the plant dry out a little to remedy this, and you might want to try applying a fungicide.
Spider mites may also infest your Redbird Cactus if the plant does not have adequate humidity.
However, you will likely need a miticide to remove the spider mites. If you catch the infestation early enough, treatment should fix the issue.
To prevent future infestations, you may want to try misting the plant leaves or placing the pot on a tray with gravel and water.
Mildew may also appear simultaneously with spider mites because the plant needs more humidity.
Lastly, if you find that the leaves turn yellow or fall off the plant, then it’s probably getting too much direct sun.
In this case, move the plant to a location with more indirect light.
Suggested Pedilanthus Tithymaloides Uses
Most gardeners grow their Pedilanthus Tithymaloides indoors to control temperature, sunlight, and humidity.
Since it can grow up to 4′ feet tall, the pot can be on the floor as a stunning visual piece.
Many people compliment their Devil’s backbone with one of the following:
- Rex Begonia: The leaves of the begonia pair well with the tall architectural look of the Milkbush.
- Snake Plant: The modern look of the Snake plant complements the tall, modern look of the Milkbush
Whether you keep it indoors or out, the Milkbush plant will give you years of enjoyment.
As a reminder, keep this plant away from young curious children and pets, as the sap is toxic.