Senecio Stapeliiformis Pickle Plant

Senecio stapeliiformis 'Pickle Plant' – Spiky, Sculptural, and Strikingly Unusual

The Senecio stapeliiformis, nicknamed the Pickle Plant, is a rare succulent prized for its upright, pencil-like stems covered in deep green markings and soft spines. With its architectural growth habit and mottled pickle-like appearance, this plant brings a sculptural, desert-inspired aesthetic to shelves, windowsills, and minimalist interiors.

Native to South Africa, the Pickle Plant is not only visually intriguing but also incredibly drought-tolerant, making it ideal for collectors and casual plant parents who enjoy low-maintenance succulents with personality.

Product Highlights

Light: Requires bright, direct light or full sun to thrive; a south-facing window is ideal

Water: Very drought-tolerant; allow soil to dry out completely before watering

Size: Ships approximately 4–8” tall in a 4" nursery pot with upright, cylindrical stems

Toxicity: Toxic if ingested by pets or humans

Style: Upright succulent with spiny, pencil-shaped stems marked by dark green bands; unusual and geometric form

Care Level: Very easy; excellent for succulent collectors and sunny windowsill spaces

How to Care for Your Senecio stapeliiformis 'Pickle Plant'

This succulent thrives in full sun and dry conditions, making it a perfect choice for sunny indoor spots or outdoor containers in warmer climates. Use a gritty, fast-draining cactus or succulent soil, and always ensure the pot has excellent drainage.

Water deeply but infrequently — usually every 2–3 weeks during the growing season, and even less during cooler months. The fleshy stems store water, so overwatering is a greater risk than underwatering. Rotate the plant occasionally to maintain even light exposure and upright growth.

While slow-growing, the Pickle Plant can eventually produce bright orange-red tubular flowers, adding even more contrast to its unique form.

Why Garden Wrld?

Every Senecio stapeliiformis is greenhouse-grown and hand-selected for strong roots, healthy stems, and mature color. We ship your plant securely in eco-friendly packaging and include a custom digital care guide to help you get the most out of your new succulent. Our plant support team is here to help with any post-purchase care questions.

Pro Tip: Place your Pickle Plant in the brightest spot available — the more light it receives, the stronger and more upright its stems will remain. This plant thrives on neglect, making it a true set-it-and-forget-it succulent.