Overview of Crassula Corymbulosa Link & Otto var. Major Schönland
Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. major Schönland, commonly known as the Chinese Pagoda or the Watch Chain plant, is a species of succulent belonging to the family Crassulaceae. The plant is native to South Africa, Madagascar, and Lesotho, and is highly valued for its ornamental and medicinal properties.
Appearance of Crassula Corymbulosa Link & Otto var. Major Schönland
The Chinese Pagoda or the Watch Chain plant has a unique and striking appearance, growing up to 12 inches in height and 8 inches in width. The branches are thin, woody, and grow upwards in a tiered fashion, resembling a pagoda or a staircase. The leaves are blue-green in color, flattened, and triangular-shaped, arranged in a tight spiral around the branches. The leaves are covered in white hairs that give them a fuzzy appearance. The plant blooms in the summer and produces white or pink flowers, grouped together in small clusters at the ends of the branches.
Uses of Crassula Corymbulosa Link & Otto var. Major Schönland
The Chinese Pagoda or the Watch Chain plant is highly valued for its ornamental and medicinal properties. The plant is popularly used in rock gardens, succulent arrangements, and as a houseplant due to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. The plant is also believed to have medicinal properties and is used in traditional South African medicine to treat stomach-aches, fever, and headaches.
In conclusion, Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. major Schönland, the Chinese Pagoda or the Watch Chain Plant, is a beautiful and useful plant with unique ornamental and medicinal properties.
Light Requirements
Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. major Schönland prefers bright, indirect light. It is an indoor plant and should not be exposed to direct sunlight as it may cause leaf burn.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a warm environment, with temperatures between 18 to 27 °C (64 to 81 °F). It can tolerate low temperatures, but frost can be detrimental to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. major Schönland prefers well-draining soil with good water retention capabilities. The soil should be rich in nutrients and have a pH between 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of peat, sand, and perlite is an ideal growing medium for this plant.
Cultivation Methods
Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. major Schönland is a low maintenance plant and is relatively easy to cultivate. It can be grown in either indoor or outdoor settings. If grown indoors, place it in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. If grown outside, make sure it is planted in well-draining soil in a partially shaded area. It is a slow-growing plant and blooms in the summer.
Watering Needs
Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. major Schönland requires moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry partially before watering. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, so make sure to avoid keeping the soil too wet. When watering, make sure to water the soil directly instead of watering the leaves to avoid rotting.
Fertilization
Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. major Schönland does not require much fertilization. A well-draining soil with added compost should suffice. It is recommended to fertilize once or twice per year during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. major Schönland to thrive, but it can be done to control its size and shape. Prune dead or damaged leaves or stems as needed. Any pruning should be done in the spring or fall.
Propagation of Crassula corymbulosa var. major Schönland
Crassula corymbulosa var. major Schönland, also known as the Red Pagoda, is a succulent plant that is commonly grown indoors. It has thick, fleshy leaves that grow in a spiral arrangement on a central stem.
Propagation through Cuttings
One of the easiest propagation methods for Crassula corymbulosa is through stem cuttings. To propagate through cuttings, select a healthy stem with a few leaves and cut it at a 45-degree angle. Allow the cutting to dry for a day and then dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil and keep it out of direct sunlight. Water sparingly until the cutting has rooted, which usually takes about two weeks.
Propagation through Leaf Cuttings
Another propagation method for Crassula corymbulosa is through leaf cuttings. To propagate through leaf cuttings, twist off a leaf from the plant, making sure to include a small piece of the stem. Allow the leaf to dry for a day or two and then place it on top of well-draining soil. Water sparingly until the leaf has rooted, which usually takes about two weeks.
Propagation through Division
If the Crassula corymbulosa plant becomes too large for its pot, it can be propagated through division. To propagate through division, gently remove the plant from its pot and divide it into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots attached. Replant each section in a new pot filled with well-draining soil and water sparingly until the plant has established.
Propagation of Crassula corymbulosa var. major Schönland is relatively easy, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. By using one of the propagation methods mentioned above, gardeners can easily create new plants and expand their collection.
Disease and Pest Management for Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. major Schönland
Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. major Schönland is a hardy succulent plant that is not prone to many diseases and pests. However, some common issues that may affect the plant include:
Diseases
Rhizoctonia Root Rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and rot at the soil line. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. If your plant is infected, remove any affected leaves and replant it in fresh soil.
Black Spot: This bacterial disease causes black spots on the leaves of the plant, which may eventually turn yellow and fall off. To prevent this, avoid overhead watering and make sure the plant has good air circulation. If your plant is infected, remove any affected leaves and treat it with a copper-based fungicide.
Pests
Mealybugs: These small, white insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause damage to the leaves. To get rid of them, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control a severe infestation.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause tiny white spots on the leaves and webs between the stems. To get rid of them, spray the plant with a strong stream of water daily until they are gone. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regularly inspect your Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. major Schönland plant for any signs of diseases or pests. Early detection and treatment can help to prevent further damage to the plant.
