Origin of Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken
Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken is a species of succulent plant that is native to parts of South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland, where it grows on rocky slopes and sandstone outcrops in the high-altitude grasslands and semi-arid regions of the country.
Common Names of Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken
Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken is commonly known as the Coral Crassula, Red Pagoda, Red Crassula, and Cardinal's Coral.
Uses of Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken
The Coral Crassula is grown both for decorative and medicinal purposes. In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, constipation, fever, and asthma. The plant can also be used for landscaping since it produces beautiful red flowers in winter and its fleshy foliage adds to the beauty of any garden. Additionally, it is sometimes used as a bonsai plant due to its unique structure and appearance.
General Appearance of Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken
Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken is a perennial succulent plant that grows up to 20cm in height. It has a branching stem which divides into smaller branches, forming small mounds that are covered in fleshy leaves that are green in colour. During the winter months, the plant produces small flowers that are reddish in colour. The leaves of the plant are arranged in a rosette pattern and have pointed tips that give the plant a unique appearance.
Light Requirements
The Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken plant requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate direct sunlight, but it should be exposed gradually to prevent leaf scorching. A lack of sufficient light can cause the plant to stretch and become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken plant is between 60 to 75 °F (15 to 24 °C). It can tolerate temperatures outside this range, but it is essential to avoid extreme temperatures. Temperatures below 50 °F (10 °C) can cause leaf drop and damage the plant's growth. Avoid exposing the plant to freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken plant prefers well-draining soil with excellent water retention capacity. The soil should be a mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The soil must be kept moist, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. A lack of water can cause the leaves to shrivel and eventually, the plant will die.
Cultivation
Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken is a popular succulent plant that thrives well under normal room temperature. This plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors, and it prefers a bright spot with indirect sunlight. For indoor cultivation, ensure that it is exposed to bright light for at least 6 hours per day.
For outdoor cultivation, select a spot that receives partial sunlight and well-drained soil. Regular exposure to sunlight is necessary for the plant to grow healthy. Avoid excessively shady areas as it may affect its growth rate.
Watering Needs
Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken requires moderate watering, but it is crucial to allow the soil to dry out between watering. Overwatering may cause root rot, which may inhibit its growth. Watering should be reduced in winter, as the plant grows dormant in low light periods.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken is critical to its growth and development. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season, which is from spring to fall, to enhance its growth rate. For healthy growth, feed the plant every two weeks.
Pruning
Pruning Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken is not necessary. However, it is advisable to remove damaged or yellowing leaves to promote growth and maintain its appearance. It is essential to use a sterile cutting tool to prevent infections while pruning.
Propagation of Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken
Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken, commonly known as red pagoda, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is an attractive plant with fleshy leaves that turn red in full sun.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken can be propagated by stem cuttings. Take a stem cutting that is at least 4 inches long and remove the leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the stem. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone, then plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix. Water the cutting sparingly, as too much moisture can cause it to rot.
Propagation by leaf cuttings
Another way to propagate Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken is by leaf cuttings. Choose a healthy leaf and gently twist it from the stem. Allow the leaf to dry for a few days until the cut end has calloused over. Then, place the leaf on a well-draining soil mix and mist it with water. After a few weeks, tiny roots will appear, followed by small plantlets.
Propagation by division
Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken can also be propagated by division. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and find a natural separation point where the roots are not tangled. Use a sharp, clean knife to cut the plant into separate sections. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mix and water sparingly.
Regardless of the propagation method used, Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken requires bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Disease Management
Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, certain environmental conditions, such as high humidity and poor air circulation, can lead to the development of fungal and bacterial diseases. The following measures can help manage such diseases:
- Provide good air circulation by spacing out plants adequately and avoiding overcrowding
- Avoid overwatering or misting the foliage, especially in humid conditions
- Remove and discard any infected plant parts as soon as they are noticed
- Treat the plant with a fungicide or bactericide if the infection persists or spreads
Pest Management
Crassula corallina Thunb. subsp. macrorrhiza Toelken may also be susceptible to various pests that can cause damage to stems, leaves, and even roots. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Mealybugs: These small, white, cottony insects can be found on the stems, leaves, and flowers of the plant. They suck sap from the plant and can weaken it. They can be managed by removing them manually or using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They can be managed by spraying the plant with water to increase humidity, or using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Scale insects: These insects appear as small, brown bumps on the stems and leaves of the plant. They can be managed by removing them manually or using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Thrips: These tiny insects cause distorted or discolored leaves on the plant. They can be managed by removing them manually or using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Regular monitoring of the plant and adopting good cultural practices can go a long way in preventing the occurrence of diseases and pests, and effectively managing them if they do occur.
