Adromischus cristatus - Indian Clubs

Adromischus cristatus 'Indian Clubs' is a cultivated form of the South African species Adromischus cristatus, native to the Eastern Cape where it grows on rocky slopes. This selection develops clusters of upright stems with thick, club-shaped leaves that narrow at the base and broaden towards the tip, often with slightly crimped or wavy margins. The surface is covered with a fine bloom, giving a grey-green tone to the foliage. Mature plants can produce slender flower spikes topped with small tubular flowers that are greenish-white with purplish tips, though the unusual club-shaped leaves are its main ornamental feature.

Care Tips

• Light: Needs bright light to full sun to maintain compact stems and highlight leaf form.
• Water: Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between applications; reduce further in winter.
• Media: Grow in a gritty, sharply draining mix to prevent excess moisture around roots.
• Fertiliser: Apply a diluted cactus fertiliser during the growing season to support healthy foliage.
• Temperature: Suited to warm, dry conditions; shelter from frost and prolonged dampness.
• Repotting: Repot every few years to refresh soil and maintain clumps; propagate from detached, callused leaves.