Overview of Crassula drummondii auct. non sensu (Torr. & Gray) Fedde p.p.
Crassula drummondii auct. non sensu (Torr. & Gray) Fedde p.p. is a succulent plant from the Crassulaceae family. It is a small, perennial plant that is commonly grown as a houseplant due to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements. It is native to South Africa and is commonly found in the Western Cape province.
Common Names
Crassula drummondii auct. non sensu (Torr. & Gray) Fedde p.p. is known by a variety of common names, including:
- Wheels and Flowers
- Red Pagoda
- Crassula Pagoda
- Indian Carpet Stonecrop
- Crassula Red Stonecrop
- Scarlet Paintbrush
Uses
Crassula drummondii auct. non sensu (Torr. & Gray) Fedde p.p. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance. It is commonly grown in containers and rock gardens as a ground cover or accent plant. It is also commonly used in floral arrangements and as a cut flower.
General Appearance
Crassula drummondii auct. non sensu (Torr. & Gray) Fedde p.p. is a small, bushy plant that typically grows to a height of 4-6 inches and spreads up to 12 inches across. The plant has a rosette-like growth form with tightly packed, fleshy leaves that are green with reddish edges. During the summer months, the plant produces small, star-shaped flowers that are bright red in color and held in clusters at the top of the plant.
The plant prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. It is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures and can be grown indoors or outdoors in USDA zones 9-11.
Light Requirements
As with most succulent plants, Crassula drummondii auct. non sensu (Torr. & Gray) Fedde p.p. prefers bright light but not direct sunlight. It thrives under partial shade to full sunlight. Therefore, it is best to place the plant near a window that receives bright light or under a shaded area outdoors. If grown indoors, ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of bright light per day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Crassula drummondii auct. non sensu (Torr. & Gray) Fedde p.p. is between 60°C and 75°C. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures during the winter months, but it should still be kept above 40°C to prevent the plant from wilting. If the temperature rises above 85°C, it can cause damage to the leaves, roots, and stem of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Crassula drummondii auct. non sensu (Torr. & Gray) Fedde p.p. requires well-draining soil with excellent air circulation. The best soil mix for this plant is a combination of perlite, sand, and peat moss. The soil should have a neutral pH range between 6.5 to 7.5. It is best to avoid heavy, clay-like soils that retain water, leading to root rot. The plant also benefits from occasional fertilizer use, especially during the growing season.
Cultivation
Crassula drummondii auct. non sensu (Torr. & Gray) Fedde p.p., commonly known as Drummond's crassula, is a succulent that is native to South Africa. It is relatively easy to grow and can be cultivated indoors or outdoors in mild to warm climates.
To cultivate this plant, ensure that it is planted in well-draining soil in a pot or container that is at least 4-6 inches deep. The soil must be slightly acidic with a pH level between 6.5 to 7.5. The container must be placed in a location that receives bright sunlight for at least six hours a day, preferably in the morning or late afternoon sun.
Keep the plant temperature between 60-75°F (16-24°C), while the humidity level should be around 40%. The plant may require protection from frost and waterlogged soil.
Watering Needs
Drummond's crassula is a drought-tolerant plant that will not require frequent watering. It is vital to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. The frequency of watering will depend on the environment in which the plant is grown, but it should not be more than once a week.
Fertilization
Drummond's crassula does not require regular fertilization. It is, however, recommended to feed the plant once every two months with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Do not fertilize the plant during winter dormancy as there will be less growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Drummond's crassula. However, removing dead or damaged leaves will encourage healthy growth and overall plant appearance. If the plant becomes too leggy or woody, it may be necessary to trim it back to its base and re-pot the stems.
Propagation of Crassula drummondii
Crassula drummondii is a succulent plant, native to Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. It can be propagated through various means, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings are a common propagation method for many types of succulents, including Crassula drummondii. To propagate this plant using leaf cuttings, follow these steps:
- Select a healthy leaf from the parent plant and remove it cleanly from the stem.
- Allow the leaf to dry for several days, until the cut end has formed a callus.
- Plant the leaf cutting in a well-draining soil mix, and water it lightly.
- Keep the cutting out of direct sunlight until it has rooted, which can take 2-4 weeks.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another option for propagating Crassula drummondii. This method is particularly useful if you want to produce many new plants from a single parent plant. Follow these steps to propagate stem cuttings:
- Select a healthy stem from the parent plant, and cut it cleanly near the base.
- Allow the stem cutting to dry for several days, until the cut end has formed a callus.
- Plant the stem cutting in a well-draining soil mix, and water it lightly.
- Keep the cutting out of direct sunlight until it has rooted, which can take 2-4 weeks.
Offsets
Crassula drummondii produces offsets, or baby plants, that can be easily separated from the parent plant and planted on their own. Follow these steps to propagate offsets:
- Carefully remove the offset from the parent plant, being sure to include some roots.
- Plant the offset in a well-draining soil mix, and water it lightly.
- Keep the plant out of direct sunlight until it has rooted, which can take 2-4 weeks.
With proper care, Crassula drummondii can be propagated successfully using any of these methods.
Disease and Pest Management for Crassula drummondii
Crassula drummondii is a succulent plant that is known to be relatively pest and disease resistant. However, like any plant, it is still susceptible to certain issues that may arise. Below are some common diseases and pests that may affect Crassula drummondii:
Black Root Rot
Black root rot is a fungal disease that is caused by overwatering or poor soil drainage. This disease is characterized by the roots turning black and/or mushy. To manage black root rot, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not overwatered. If black root rot is severe, the affected parts of the plant should be removed.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that presents as small brown or black circular spots on the leaves. This disease is caused by high humidity or dampness, and can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out between waterings and maintaining good air circulation. To manage leaf spot, remove affected leaves and avoid getting water on the leaves when watering.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are common pests that may affect Crassula drummondii. These bugs look like small white cottony masses on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. In severe cases, neem oil or insecticidal soap may be used.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are common pests that can affect succulent plants. They are small insects that can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with a mild soap and water solution and apply neem oil or insecticidal soap. It is also important to maintain good air circulation to prevent spider mites from taking hold.
By following these tips for disease and pest management, you can help ensure that your Crassula drummondii stays healthy and beautiful for years to come.
