Redbird flower (Pedilanthus tithymaloides)

Redbird flower

Features and Characteristics

Pedilanthus tithymaloides is commonly called devil’s backbone in reference to the zigzag stems that purportedly resemble a spinal column. Native from southern Florida and the Caribbean to Venezuela, this clump-forming succulent shrub or subshrub will grow in nature to 6’ tall and to 3’ wide. Indoors, it more typically grows to 2’ tall. Ovate to elliptic, medium green leaves (to 3” long). Showy, two-lipped, red bracts encase insignificant tiny scarlet flowers in late spring or early summer. Flowers are clustered at the branch ends. Fruits are small capsules. Plants rarely bloom indoors, however. Zigzag stems exude a poisonous milky sap when cut.

Genus name comes from the Greek words pedilon meaning sandal and anthos meaning a flower for the shape of the flowers.

‘Variegatus’ has leaves with pink or white variegation.

Care and Maintenance

Winter hardy to USDA Zones 9-1 In St. Louis, grow as an indoor plant in a sandy potting mix in sun, with some protection from hot afternoon sun. Water plants moderately but consistently throughout the year with only a slight reduction from fall to late winter. Tolerant of somewhat poor soils. Tolerant of some soil dryness, but leaf drop will occur if soils become too dry. Prune as needed to keep plants compact.

Redbird flower (Pedilanthus tithymaloides) Requirements

Hardiness zone	9 - 11
Sun light	Full sun to part shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for mealybugs or spider mites. For more information see: Problems Common to Many Indoor Plants

Uses

Small succulent subshrub for sunny indoor areas.

Redbird flower (Pedilanthus tithymaloides) Details

Common name	Redbird flower
Botanical name	Pedilanthus tithymaloides
Plant type	Broadleaf evergreen
Family	Euphorbiaceae
Hardiness zone	9 - 11
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Red
Flowering period	Rarely flowers indoors
Height	2 - 6 ft.
Width	1 - 3 ft.