Devil's Claw

Devil's Claw likes a good soaking and then likes the potting mix to dry out slightly in between waterings. When watering, evenly moisten the potting mix until water begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. Be sure not to waterlog the pot since the plant is susceptible to root rot. In the winter, reduce waterings as the plant goes dormant. Adding a layer of mulch can help retain moisture in the soil and also helps to reduce water loss.

Devil's Claw requires bright, direct sunlight to thrive. A window that faces south, east or west is ideal. If the plant isn't getting enough light, its growth will be stunted and the flowers will not be as vibrant. If you can't provide direct sunlight, you can make up for it by using full spectrum grow lights. Try to keep the plant in an area where the temperature stays between 60-85°F (16-29°C). Avoid placing it in an area where there are drafts or cold air.

Devil's Claw prefers moderate temperatures between 60-85°F (16-29°C). During the summer, it can tolerate higher temperatures, but hot temperatures, above 95°F (35°C), should be avoided. Humidity levels should also be kept at moderate levels. High temperatures and humidity can increase the risk of fungal problems. In the winter, the plant prefers lower temperatures between 40-70°F (4-21°C). Avoid temperatures that drop below freezing as this can cause the plant to die.

Devil's Claw plants prefer a humid environment, ideally one that has 30-50% relative humidity. To increase humidity levels, place the plant on a tray of wet pebbles. Alternatively, you can mist the leaves with distilled water. If the environment is too arid, the plant's growth will be stunted and the leaves may experience crispy tips.

Devil's Claw prefers a light cactus potting mix that drains quickly. You can also mix perlite, peat moss, and sand in equal parts to create a soil mixture that will be perfect for this plant. Be sure to avoid soil that is too dense as this can lead to root rot.

Devil's Claw should be fertilized every month during the spring and summer with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Avoid using heavy fertilizers as these can burn the roots. In the fall and winter, reduce fertilization to once or twice a month. Fertilization should stop when the plant enters its dormant period.

Devil's Claw is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. The best way to prevent pests is to keep the leaves clean and free of dust. If you do notice signs of pests, use a gentle insecticidal soap to treat the plant. You can also use neem oil, horticultural oil, or other organic sprays to get rid of any pests. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label before use.

Devil's Claws should be repotted every two years in the spring. When repotting, choose a pot that is one or two inches larger than the previous pot. Make sure the pot has good drainage holes and use a light potting mix specifically for cacti and succulents. Be sure not to overpot the plant or pack the potting mix too tightly as this can lead to root rot.

Devil's Claw will benefit from occasional pruning. This will help to maintain a neat and attractive shape. To prune, remove any dead or damaged stems and shape the plant by cutting back faded flowers and thin out any leggy growth. Try to avoid pruning too much at once as this could shock the plant. Pruning in the spring will encourage bushier growth.

Mulching is not necessary for this plant, but it can help retain moisture and protect the roots from extreme temperatures. Use a lightweight organic mulch such as shredded bark or cocoa bean hulls.

Devil's Claw can be propagated by seeds, stem cuttings, or offsets. To propagate from seeds, sow the seeds in the spring in a well-draining soil mix. Make sure to keep the temperature and humidity levels constant and keep the soil consistently moist. Stem cuttings can also be taken in the spring or summer and placed in a moist potting mix. Offsets can be carefully separated from the mother plant and planted in new pots. Both cuttings and offsets should be kept in a warm place with bright indirect light.

Devil's Claw may need support if the stems get too tall or the plant becomes heavily laden with flowers. Use bamboo stakes to give the plant some extra stability and to help keep the stems upright.

During the winter months, Devil's Claw will naturally go into a dormant period. During this time, waterings should be further reduced and care should be taken to protect the plant from frost or freezing temperatures. The rest period will last until the spring when the plant will begin to grow again.

Devil's Claw is not known to be toxic to pets, but contact with the woody spikes or leaves should be avoided. Ingesting any part of the plant could cause mild stomach upset and therefore should also be avoided.