Overview
The Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. anomala (Schönland & Baker f.) Toelken x C. nudicaulis L. var. nudicaulis is a diverse plant species with a unique combination of anatomy, morphology, and ecology. This plant is part of the Crassulaceae family and is native to South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland.
Appearance
The Crassula atropurpurea var. anomala x C. nudicaulis var. nudicaulis has a compact, mat-forming growth habit. The leaves are thick, bright green to reddish in color, and can grow up to 7 cm. This plant has a succulent-like appearance, with plump, rounded leaves that resemble a rosette. The shapes of the leaves can vary widely depending on genetics, habitat, and growing conditions.
Common Names
The Crassula atropurpurea var. anomala x C. nudicaulis var. nudicaulis is commonly referred to as Red Bells, Maroon Pagoda or Plakkie. These names are based on the color and structure of the leaves and the overall appearance of the plant.
Uses
This species of Crassula is of great interest to plant enthusiasts, gardeners, and florists due to its unique appearance and durability. It can be used both as an indoor plant and outdoor ground cover. Additionally, its leaves are used for propagation purposes, as they can easily root in water or soil. The drought-tolerant nature of this plant makes it ideal for use in low-water landscapes and rock gardens.
Light Requirements:
Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. anomala (Schönland & Baker f.) Toelken x C. nudicaulis L. var. nudicaulis requires bright and indirect sunlight. It can tolerate partial shade but direct sunlight can scorch its leaves and cause damage. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in a location where it can get bright light for a few hours in the morning or evening and partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements:
The ideal temperature range for Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. anomala (Schönland & Baker f.) Toelken x C. nudicaulis L. var. nudicaulis is between 65 to 75°F (18 to 24°C). It can tolerate higher or lower temperatures, but extreme heat or cold can cause damage to the plant. During the winter months, the plant should be protected from drafts and temperatures that drop below 50°F (10°C).
Soil Requirements:
The plant requires well-draining soil with good aeration. It should be planted in a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A mix of peat moss, sand, and perlite or pumice can be used to create a well-draining soil. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Cultivation Methods
Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. anomala (Schönland & Baker f.) Toelken x C. nudicaulis L. var. nudicaulis is a succulent plant that requires well-draining soil, ample sunlight and mild temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, depending on the climate conditions in your area. It is recommended to place the plant in a pot with drainage holes, allowing the soil to dry out between watering.
Watering Needs
Since Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. anomala (Schönland & Baker f.) Toelken x C. nudicaulis L. var. nudicaulis is a succulent, it does not require frequent watering. Watering once every 7-10 days during the growing season and once every 14-20 days during the dormant season is sufficient. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. The soil should be allowed to dry out between watering.
Fertilization
Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. anomala (Schönland & Baker f.) Toelken x C. nudicaulis L. var. nudicaulis requires minimal fertilization. Fertilize the plant during the growing season with a low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season as this can stress the plant and damage new growth.
Pruning
Pruning Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. anomala (Schönland & Baker f.) Toelken x C. nudicaulis L. var. nudicaulis is optional and should be done sparingly. It can be pruned to control its shape and size or to remove yellow or withered leaves. Be sure to use sharp and clean pruning tools to avoid causing damage to the plant. Pruning can be done throughout the growing season.
Propagation of Crassula atropurpurea var. anomala x C. nudicaulis var. nudicaulis
Crassula atropurpurea var. anomala x C. nudicaulis var. nudicaulis can be propagated through different methods. Here are some of them:
Leaf cuttings
One of the most common propagation methods for Crassula species is through leaf cuttings. For this, choose a healthy leaf and remove it carefully from the parent plant. Let the cutting callus over for a day or two. Then, plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, lightly covering the basal end with soil. After planting, water the cutting and place in a bright but indirect light. Over time, roots will sprout from the buried end and new plantlets will grow from the leaf's tip.
Stem cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is also an option for Crassula atropurpurea var. anomala x C. nudicaulis var. nudicaulis. Choose a healthy stem with several leaves and take a cutting about 3-4 inches long. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving a small stem. Let the cutting callus over for a day or two and then plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting and place in a bright but indirect light. The cutting will develop roots and start growing new leaves.
Division
Another propagation method that can be used for Crassula atropurpurea var. anomala x C. nudicaulis var. nudicaulis is division. This is best done when the plant has developed several offsets or when it has become crowded in its pot. Carefully remove the parent plant from its pot and separate the offsets or individual plants. Repot each plant in a well-draining potting mix and water it. Place the newly divided plants in bright but indirect light.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to mist the young plants occasionally, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and protect them from direct sunlight until they are established.
Disease Management
Crassula atropurpurea var. anomala x C. nudicaulis var. nudicaulis is generally disease-resistant, but it may still get infected with certain diseases. The following are some common diseases that may affect this plant:
- Black spot: This fungal disease causes circular black spots with a yellow halo on the leaves, which may eventually cause the affected leaves to fall off. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves or use a fungicide.
- Root rot: Overwatering and poorly-draining soil can cause the roots to rot, which may lead to stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting of the leaves. To manage this disease, reduce watering, improve soil drainage, and remove the affected parts of the plant.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, which may cause them to curl and twist. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves or use a fungicide.
Pest Management
Crassula atropurpurea var. anomala x C. nudicaulis var. nudicaulis may also be susceptible to certain pests. The following are some common pests that may affect this plant:
- Mealybugs: These small, white, cotton-like insects may infest the leaves and stems, sucking sap and causing yellowing and distortion of the plant. To manage this pest, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: These small, green or black insects may infest the new growth, causing curling and distortion of the leaves. To manage this pest, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny insects may infest the underside of the leaves, causing yellowing and stippling of the foliage. To manage this pest, increase humidity and use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
