Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken
Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D. Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken is a unique succulent plant species that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. It is mainly found in the southwestern and eastern regions of South Africa, where it thrives in rocky areas with well-draining soils.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the Red Crassula or the Purple Crassula. Other nicknames include Red Pagoda and Cape Province Crassula.
Appearance
The Crassula atropurpurea var. rubella is a small, evergreen shrub that can grow up to 20 centimeters tall. It has red-purple foliage, with leaves arranged in a rosette formation. Its leaves are fleshy, round, and slightly concave, giving them a unique cup-like shape. The plant produces lavender, star-shaped flowers in clusters at the end of its stems during the summer months.
Uses
The Red Crassula is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, rockeries, and containers. Its unusual foliage and clusters of striking flowers make it an attractive addition to any landscape. It can also be used as a houseplant, given its ease of care and ability to thrive in various lighting conditions. This plant does not have any known medicinal or culinary uses.
Light Requirements
Crassula atropurpurea var. rubella prefers to grow in full sunlight to partial shade conditions. It is recommended to place the plant in a location where it receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight every day. However, it must be protected from intense midday sun to prevent sunburn. If grown indoors, it must be placed near a window with good exposure to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Crassula atropurpurea var. rubella grows best in temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) but requires protection from frost. It is recommended to keep the plant in a warm location, away from cold drafts or air conditioning vents. Extreme temperatures or sudden temperature changes can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers soil that is well-draining, neutral to slightly acidic, and moderately fertile. It must be planted in soil that is rich in organic matter. A potting mix consisting of equal parts of sand, perlite, and peat moss is ideal for the plant to thrive. It is essential to choose a pot or container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging that can damage the roots.
Cultivation methods for Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken
Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken is a succulent plant that grows well in warm, dry climates. It thrives in well-draining soil that is enriched with organic matter. Potted plants are best suited for indoor or outdoor cultivation.
When cultivating this plant, it is essential to ensure that the soil pH is between 6.0 and 7.5. The ideal temperature for growth ranges from 60 °F to 80 °F. The plant requires a lot of sunlight, and it is recommended to place it near a window that receives a lot of natural light.
Watering needs for Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken
Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken prefers dry soil, so watering should be minimal. Allow the soil to completely dry out before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Water the plant only once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the dormant season. Use a watering can with a spout to avoid spreading water on the leaves.
Fertilization for Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken
Fertilization is not necessary for Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken, but it can promote growth and health. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half strength, once a month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season as this can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning for Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken
Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken does not require pruning to maintain its shape, but removing dead leaves and stems can prevent disease. Use sterile pruning shears to cut the stem cleanly, close to the base of the plant.
Propagation is possible using stem cuttings that have been allowed to callus over before planting. Pot the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and water sparingly until the plant establishes roots.
Propagation of Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken
Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken can be easily propagated using various methods, such as stem and leaf cuttings or division.
Stem Cuttings
To produce stem cuttings, select a healthy and mature stem and cut a section of about 5-7.5 cm long. Remove the leaves from the bottom third of the cutting and allow the wound to callus over for about a day. Then, insert the cutting into a well-draining soil mixture and water it lightly. Keep the cutting in a bright and humid area and make sure to keep the soil moist. After two to three weeks, the cutting should start developing roots, and the plantlets can be transplanted into individual pots.
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings can be taken from a mature and healthy leaf by gently twisting it off the stem, making sure to include the entire leaf, including its base. Let the wound callus over for a day, then insert the leaf into well-draining soil. Water the soil lightly and keep the cutting in a bright and humid area. Over time, the leaf cutting should start developing roots and new leaves, after which it can be potted individually.
Division
In the case of mature Crassula atropurpurea (Haw.) D.Dietr. var. rubella (Compton) Toelken specimens, plants can be divided into smaller sections and re-potted. This process involves removing the plant from the soil, gently teasing apart the roots of the plant, and dividing the plant into smaller pieces. Make sure each smaller section has a healthy root system and is appropriately sized to grow individually. Then transplant each portion into its individual pot with well-draining soil and water it lightly.
Disease Management
C. atropurpurea var. rubella is relatively resistant to most diseases but may occasionally fall prey to various bacterial, fungal or viral infections. Some of the common diseases that may affect this plant include:
- Black spot: This is a fungal disease that appears as black or brown spots on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Also, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
- Rust: This is a fungal disease that causes orange or brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, prune and dispose of infected leaves and ensure that the plant is watered properly and has good air circulation.
- Mosaic virus: This is a viral disease that causes yellow or white spots on the leaves. There is no cure for this disease, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the virus to other plants.
Pest Management
C. atropurpurea var. rubella is also relatively resistant to pests, but several insect pests may sometimes attack this plant. Some of the common pests that may affect this plant include:
- Mealybugs: These are small, white, fuzzy insects that feed on the sap of the plant. To manage mealybugs, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Repeat this process every few days until the infestation is gone.
- Spider mites: These are tiny, spider-like insects that can cause yellow or stippled leaves. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap or oil.
- Scale insects: These are small, stationary insects that can cause yellowing and shedding of leaves. To manage scale insects, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to wipe off the insects and their sticky residue. Repeat this process every few days until the infestation is gone.
