Pedilanthus bracteatus, commonly known as the slipper flower or Christmas candle, is a unique succulent native to Mexico. It features slender, upright stems adorned with glossy, lance-shaped leaves and clusters of small, greenish-yellow flowers surrounded by bright red bracts, resembling a festive candle arrangement. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in sunny locations with well-draining soil and is ideal for rock gardens, containers, or as a striking accent in desert landscapes. Pedilanthus bracteatus adds a touch of exotic beauty to garden landscapes, attracting pollinators such as hummingbirds with its vibrant blooms. With its distinctive appearance and low-maintenance nature, the slipper flower is sure to spark conversation and admiration in any garden setting.
Pedilanthus bracteatus, commonly known as the slipper flower or Christmas candle, is a unique succulent native to Mexico. It is characterized by its slender, upright stems, glossy, lance-shaped leaves, and clusters of small, greenish-yellow flowers surrounded by bright red bracts that resemble a festive candle arrangement. This plant adds a playful and whimsical element to garden landscapes with its vibrant colors and distinctive form. The bright red or orange bracts resembling slippers, along with its arching stems, make it a standout in any garden, sure to spark conversation and draw attention.
Attracts Attention in Gardens
Glossy, Lance-Shaped Leaves
Greenish-Yellow Small Flowers
Thrives in Sunny, Dry Conditions
This drought-tolerant succulent thrives in sunny locations with well-draining soil, making it ideal for rock gardens, desert-themed landscapes, or as a striking accent in containers. Pedilanthus bracteatus is suited for regions with arid climates due to its low water requirements and tolerance to heat. It can be effectively used as a low hedge or border plant, providing texture and color contrast, or in xeriscaping projects, where its resilience and low-maintenance nature are particularly valuable. Its ability to attract pollinators such as hummingbirds enhances its utility in garden settings, adding both beauty and biodiversity.
Perfect for Rock and Desert Gardens
Attracts Hummingbirds and Butterflies
Suitable for Desert Landscapes
Eye-Catching Floral Arrangements
Pedilanthus bracteatus is versatile in its uses, often planted in containers or rock gardens to create striking focal points due to its upright growth habit and unusual red or green stems. It is also an excellent choice for container gardens or mixed plantings, adding significant texture and visual interest to outdoor spaces. The plant’s distinctive bracts can be utilized in floral arrangements as unique accents or focal points, providing a striking contrast and adding exotic beauty to the composition. Its drought tolerance and preference for well-draining soil make it suitable for xeriscaping and other garden projects focused on sustainability and low maintenance care.
Thrives in bright, indirect light to partial shade. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch.
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. This plant is drought tolerant.
Prefers well-drained soil, particularly sandy or gritty mixtures, to prevent root rot.
Minimal. Prune to shape, if necessary, but generally, this plant requires little intervention. Be cautious of its sap, which can be irritating to skin and eyes.
This genus is known for its unique, often colorful bracts rather than true flowers, which appear sporadically throughout the year.
