Crassula Pubescens: Care And Propagation Guide
Last Updated on July 8, 2023
Crassula pubescens, also known as the hairy crassula or red crassula, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is a member of the Crassulaceae family and has the distinction of being one of the few red-leaved succulents. The hairy crassula is a fast-growing plant and can reach up to 12 inches (30 cm) in height.
The leaves are thick and fleshy, with a deep green color and red margins. The flowers are white or pink and appear in summer.
If you’re looking for a charming little succulent to add to your collection, look no further than Crassula pubescens! This South African native is perfect for beginners, as it’s easy to care for and propagate. Here’s everything you need to know about Crassula pubescens:
Light: Like most succulents, Crassula pubescens does best in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sun will scorch the leaves, so if you live in a hot climate, provide some afternoon shade.
Water: Water thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch, then allow the plant to drain completely.
Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause them to rot. During the winter months, reduce watering even further; once every few weeks should suffice.
Soil: A well-draining cactus or succulent mix is ideal for Crassula pubescens.
If your pot does not have drainage holes, be sure to add some gravel or rocks to the bottom before adding soil. This will help prevent root rot.
Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced fertilizer diluted by half during the growing season (spring and summer).
There is no need to fertilize during the winter months when growth slows down.
Credit: mountaincrestgardens.com
How Do You Propagate Crassula?
If you’re interested in propagating Crassula, also known as Jade Plants, there are a few different methods you can use. One easy way is to take stem cuttings from an existing plant and pot them up in moistened potting mix. You can also try rooting leaf cuttings, which is a bit more challenging but still possible.
Whichever method you choose, be sure to use sharp scissors or pruners to make clean cuts on the plant material. These plants are pretty tough and tolerant, so don’t be afraid to experiment a little until you find a propagation method that works best for you.
How Do You Propagate Crassula in Water?
If you’re looking to propagate your Crassula in water, there are a few things you’ll need to do. First, you’ll need to take a cutting from the plant. Make sure that the cutting has at least two leaves on it, as this will help ensure that it can grow roots.
Once you have your cutting, dip the end of it into some rooting hormone. This will help encourage root growth.
Next, fill a clean glass jar with room temperature water and place your cutting inside.
Put the jar in a spot where it will receive indirect sunlight and wait for roots to form. This can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Once roots have formed, you can then transfer your Crassula plantlet to soil.
How Much Sunlight Does a Crassula Need?
Most cacti and succulents, including crassula, come from sunny, dry regions where they are accustomed to long hours of bright sunlight. In general, these plants do best when exposed to bright light for at least six hours a day. However, some species can tolerate lower light levels and even full shade.
If you are not sure how much sunlight your crassula needs, it is best to err on the side of too little rather than too much sun. Too much sun can scorch the leaves and cause them to turn yellow or brown. If your plant is not getting enough sun, it will stretch out and become leggy in an attempt to reach for the light.
Can I Grow Crassula Indoors?
Yes, Crassula can be grown indoors! These succulents are tolerant of a wide range of conditions, making them ideal for indoor growth. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when growing Crassula indoors.
Light: Crassula need bright light to thrive, so choose a spot near a window where they will receive plenty of sunlight. If your Crassula starts to stretch or become leggy, it is not getting enough light.
Water: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Water deeply and then allow the excess water to drain away. Overwatering is one of the most common problems with indoor plants, so err on the side of too little rather than too much.
Temperature: These succulents can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from hot summers to cool winters.
However, they will not do well if exposed to drafts or extreme temperature changes.
Soil: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix for your Crassula. Regular potting soil will hold too much moisture and can lead to root rot.
Chop & Prop With Me (Ep. 1) | Crassula Pubescens
Crassula Succulent
Crassula are a large genus of succulent plants, native to many parts of the world including southern Africa. They are characterized by their thick, fleshy leaves and stems, which store water for dry periods. Crassulas are popular as houseplants and in gardens due to their low-maintenance requirements and resistance to drought.
Many species of crassula can be propagated easily from stem or leaf cuttings.
The most common crassula grown as a houseplant is Crassula ovata, also known as jade plant or money tree. This species has glossy green leaves and can grow up to four feet tall indoors with proper care.
Jade plants prefer bright light but can tolerate some direct sun; they should be watered only when the soil is completely dry. Too much water can cause the leaves to drop off or turn yellow.
If you’re looking for a unique succulent to add to your collection, consider one of the lesser-known crassulas such as Crassula arborescens (tree form jade plant), Crassula perforata (string of buttons), or Crassula rupestris (roseum).
These unusual varieties make great conversation starters and add visual interest to any space.
Propagate Succulent Leaves
Succulents are one of the easiest plants to propagate. They can be propagated from leaves, stem cuttings, or offsets. The most common method is propagation from stem cuttings.
To propagate succulents from leaves, start by gently removing a leaf from the plant. Place the leaf on a surface that will allow it to callous over (this could be sand, soil, or even just a paper towel). Allow the leaf to callous over for a few days and then place it on top of well-draining soil.
Keep the soil moist but not soggy and soon you should see new growth!
To propagate succulents from stem cuttings, start by cutting a piece of stem about 2-3 inches long. Make sure there are at least 2 nodes (the small bumps where leaves attach) on the cutting.
Allow the cutting to callous over for a few days and then plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not soggy and soon you should see new growth!
Crassula Rupestris
If you love succulents, then you’ll definitely want to add Crassula rupestris to your collection! This South African native is a member of the Crassulaceae family and is closely related to other popular succulents like Sedum and Sempervivum. Crassula rupestris is a small, evergreen succulent that forms rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves.
The leaves are green with red margins and can turn pink or purple in full sun. In late winter to early spring, Crassula rupestris produces small white flowers that contrast beautifully against the dark leaf margins.
Crassula rupestris is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
It’s an easy plant to care for and will thrive with minimal watering. In fact, too much water can be detrimental as it can cause the leaves to rot. If you live in a cold climate, it’s best to grow Crassula rupestris indoors where it can be protected from frost damage.
Whether you’re new to growing succulents or are looking for an interesting addition to your collection, Crassula rupestris is definitely worth checking out!
Jade Plant Propagation
Jade plants (Crassula ovata) are succulents that are popular houseplants. They are easy to care for and propagate. Jade plants can be propagated from stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy, actively growing plants. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle just below a node (the point where leaves attach to the stem). Allow the cutting to callus for a few days before potting it in well-draining soil.
Keep the cutting moist but not wet and in bright, indirect light until new growth appears. Leaf cuttings can be taken year-round from healthy jade plants. Cut a leaf off at its base, making sure there is a small piece of stem attached.
Allow the leaf cutting to callus for a few days before potting it in well-draining soil.
What Is the Best Way to Propagate Crassula Susannae?
When it comes to crassula susannae care tips, the best way to propagate this plant is through leaf cuttings. Gently remove a healthy leaf from the mother plant and let it callus over for a few days. Plant the leaf in a well-draining soil mix, water sparingly, and place it in a bright location. With patience and proper care, new roots and tiny plants will emerge from the leaf, allowing you to grow your crassula susannae collection.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a fast-growing, drought-tolerant succulent to add to your collection, Crassula pubescens is a great option! This native of South Africa is easily propagated from stem cuttings, and can reach up to 2 feet tall in its natural habitat. When grown indoors, it will stay smaller, making it an ideal plant for windowsills or terrariums.
Crassula pubescens prefers bright light but can tolerate some shade, and should be allowed to dry out completely between watering. Keep an eye out for mealybugs and scale insects, which can infest this plant if not controlled.
