I've never seen anything like this plant and have no idea what it is. I've owned it for about a year and a half and I've never seen it flower. I'm hoping someone can help me identify it. Thanks!
Devil's backbone, or Red Birds. It was Pedilanthes tithymaloides last time I checked, but the taxonomy may have been revised.
Lorax is correct, Pedilanthes tithymaloides. And, can't tell for sure but, it looks like yours has a good case of mildew as did mine. They hate moist air is all I could figure out. I gave up on mine. :) barb
Barbara is bang on - Red Birds are a xeriscaping plant and they loathe moisture. I've only ever been able to grow them successfully when I actually live in desert areas; everywhere else they succumb to mildew or fungal infections quite rapidly.
I noticed the white fuzz on the leaves but didn't know what it was. Are there any suggestions to get rid of it? Should I pluck the affected leaves? There's not much I can do in terms of making it less humid in my house, and it will only get more humid in the summertime. I don't want to give up on it yet!
Try to find a stem/branch end that does not have the mildew on it, stick it in water and restart it. They start real easily. Thats about all you can do. Then put it in the driest part of your house and pray. ;))) barb
I did some research and cut off the leaves and parts of the stem that I could see the mildew on. I've also moved it closer to an air vent so I hope the increased circulation helps. I'll try taking a cutting too, so I can start a new plant in case this one doesn't make it. Thanks for your suggestions!
That's about all you can do. I liked the plant because it wasn't something common. I like to grow houseplants that are unusual. When people see them the go wow what's that! I swiped my start years ago from a hotel in Baha Mexico. You don't dare do that now days. So, keep us posted on the progress. And BTW - welcome to this forum. ;)))
