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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle
Gynelle Leon

Houseplant of the week: frizzle sizzle

Albuca Spiralis Succulent or frizzle sizzle plant

Why will I love it?
With its distinctive, corkscrew-like leaves that twist and twirl towards the sky, the frizzle sizzle (Albuca spiralis) commands attention. This ornamental gem will bring a playful element to any plant collection, paired with the occasional emergence of sweetly scented yellow flowers.

Light or shade?
This succulent bulb loves to bask in full sun to partial shade. If the leaves start losing their twist, they need more light.

Where should I put it?
This South African native thrives in a warm, well-lit spot away from draughts. It’s perfect for brightening up a desk or shelf where its quirky spirals can be fully appreciated.

How do I keep it alive?
As a succulent it is drought-tolerant, which means it’s forgiving if you forget to water it occasionally. Feed it with a succulent fertiliser in spring to promote growth.

Did you know …
The frizzle sizzle has an unusual dormancy period in summer, allowing it to survive the dry climate of its native habitat. It is known to produce a slime when cut or handled– a feature of plants in the Albuca genus. This slime is thought to be a pest deterrent, which makes it toxic to children and pets when ingested.

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