Overview
Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. typica Schönland is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is an evergreen shrub that is cultivated for its ornamental value and as a houseplant. The plant is native to South Africa, specifically the Cape Province.
Common Names
The Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. typica Schönland is commonly known by its Afrikaans name "tjienkerientjee" or "tienkies plant." It is also called "Watch Chain" or "Necklace Vine," a name that derives from the plant's distinctive chain-like appearance.
General Appearance
The plant has a woody stem and grows up to 30 cm in height. It has fleshy, round leaves that grow opposite each other on the stem. The leaves are a bright green color and have a crinkled texture on the surface. The plant produces tiny clusters of white flowers, which bloom in the spring and early summer.
The Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. typica Schönland has a unique growth habit, where the leaves are tightly stacked on top of each other along the stem. This arrangement gives the plant a chain-like or stacked appearance, hence its common names "Watch Chain" or "Necklace Vine."
Uses
The Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. typica Schönland is grown for its ornamental value. It is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for, making it popular among indoor gardeners. The plant is often used as a houseplant, on outdoor patios, or in rock gardens.
The plant is also known for its ability to purify the air. Like other succulent plants, it absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, making it an ideal plant for homes and offices.
Additionally, some people use the plant in traditional medicine, specifically for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is believed that the plant's leaves, when crushed and applied topically, can help alleviate pain and inflammation in the joints and muscles.
Light Requirements
The Crassula corymbulosa plant prefers bright but indirect sunlight. It can tolerate low light conditions but will not grow or develop its distinctive coloration as well. Too much direct sunlight can damage the plant, causing its leaves to curl and become discolored.
Temperature Requirements
The Crassula corymbulosa plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers moderate temperatures of around 60-75°F (15-24°C). It can tolerate higher temperatures up to 90°F (32°C) but may require more water in such conditions. This plant can also tolerate cooler temperatures down to 40°F (5°C) but may experience stunted growth during colder periods.
Soil Requirements
The Crassula corymbulosa plant prefers well-draining soil with high organic matter content. A mixture of potting soil, sand, and perlite is an excellent choice. The soil should not be allowed to become waterlogged as this can cause root rot and damage to the plant.
Additionally, adding a layer of pebbles or small rocks to the bottom of the pot can help with drainage. The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Cultivation methods
Crassula corymbulosa is a succulent plant native to South Africa, which makes it particularly drought-tolerant. It grows well in warm climates, but it can also withstand cooler temperatures. It is easy to cultivate and can thrive both indoors and outdoors. When growing it indoors, it requires bright indirect light and when planted outdoors, it requires partial to full sun exposure. It needs well-draining soil, and its pot should be just proportional to the plant size.
Watering needs
Crassula corymbulosa can survive for long periods without water because of its succulent nature. Therefore, the watering should be minimal. Water it thoroughly after the soil is completely dry. Overwatering may cause the roots' rot and lead to the plant's death. During the dormant period, which is usually in winter, it needs even less water.
Fertilization
Crassula corymbulosa requires little fertilizer. During the growing season, which occurs in spring and summer, fertilize it once or twice every month using a succulent liquid fertilizer. It is recommended that you use a weaker fertilizer solution than the intended concentration.
Pruning
Crassula corymbulosa does not require a lot of pruning. Removing spent flower stalks, occasionally removing dry lower leaves to keep the plant looking tidy, and controlling the plant size are the standard pruning methods. If the plant is getting too leggy, you should also pinch back its stem tips to encourage bushiness. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to prevent diseases.
Propagation of Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. typica Schönland
Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. typica Schönland can be propagated through various methods. The most common propagation techniques are:
Leaf Cuttings
The leaf cuttings of Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. typica Schönland can be used for propagation. Take a healthy leaf from the plant and allow it to dry out for a few days. Then plant the leaf horizontally in well-draining soil. After a few weeks, the leaf will develop roots and a new plantlet will emerge from the base of the leaf. Once the new plantlet has developed a few leaves, it can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are also an effective way to propagate Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. typica Schönland. Cut a healthy stem from the parent plant and allow it to dry out for a few days. Then plant the stem vertically in well-draining soil and water it thoroughly. After a few weeks, the stem will develop roots and a new plantlet will emerge from the stem. Once the new plantlet has developed a few leaves, it can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Division
Division is another way to propagate Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. typica Schönland. Remove the parent plant from its pot and separate the offsets that have developed at the base of the plant. Each offset should have its own roots. Plant the offsets in well-draining soil and water them thoroughly. After a few weeks, the offsets will develop their own leaves and will grow into new plants.
Propagation of Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. typica Schönland is relatively easy and can be done throughout the year. However, it is best to propagate the plant during the growing season (spring-summer) when the plant is actively growing.
Disease and Pest Management for Crassula Corymbulosa Link & Otto var. Typica Schönland
Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. typica Schönland is a hardy succulent plant that is relatively easy to care for. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can cause significant damage. Here are some common issues that may affect your plant and tips on how to manage them.
Diseases
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that appears as small reddish-brown spots on the leaves. These spots can quickly grow larger and eventually cause the leaves to wither and die. To manage rust, remove any infected leaves and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Root rot: Root rot is a common disease that affects many types of plants, including Crassula corymbulosa. It is caused by overwatering and poor drainage, which leads to the roots becoming waterlogged and eventually rotting. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not overwatered.
Mildew: Mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powder on the leaves of the plant. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including high humidity and poor air circulation. To manage mildew, remove any infected leaves and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause significant damage if left untreated. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that spin webs on the plant and suck the sap from the leaves. They are most common in dry conditions and can be difficult to see with the naked eye. To manage spider mites, use a spray bottle to mist the plant with water and a few drops of dish soap. Repeat this process every few days until the spider mites are gone.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, brown insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be difficult to see and often go unnoticed until they have caused significant damage. To manage scale insects, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant.
By properly identifying and managing any diseases or pests that affect Crassula corymbulosa Link & Otto var. typica Schönland, you can ensure that your plant remains healthy and thriving.
