Plant Description
Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. It is a small, densely branched shrub that can grow up to 15 cm tall and 20 cm wide. The plant has a woody stem and fleshy, elliptic-obovate leaves that are bright green in color. The leaves are tightly packed and grow in opposite pairs, measuring 8-20 mm in length and 3-8 mm in width.
Plant Origin
The plant is native to South Africa, particularly in the Western Cape Province where it grows in rocky crevices and on cliffs. It is commonly found in the areas around the towns of Worcester, Ceres, and Tulbagh.
Common Names
Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland is commonly known as the Harvey's Crassula, the Tree Crassula or the Succulent Crassula.
Plant Uses
The Harvey's Crassula is often grown as an ornamental plant because of its attractive foliage, compact size, and easy care requirements. It thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. The plant can also be propagated easily from stem cuttings. In some cultures, the plant is believed to have medicinal properties and is used as a herbal remedy for stomach ailments, coughs, and throat infections. However, caution should be exercised before ingesting any part of the plant as it may cause adverse reactions in some individuals.
Growth Conditions for Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland
Light: Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland prefers bright but indirect light to grow properly. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves and stunt its growth.
Temperature: This plant thrives in a warm and dry environment. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (16-24°C). Make sure to protect it from frost and freezing temperatures as it can damage or kill the plant.
Soil: The soil for Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland should be well-draining but should also retain some moisture. A mix of cactus soil and perlite in a ratio of 2:1 is ideal for this plant. The soil should also be slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0-7.0.
Water: This plant does not need frequent watering and can tolerate drought. Water it only when the soil is completely dry and then give it a good soak. Make sure there is no standing water, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer: Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland does not need excessive fertilization. Feed it once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Cultivation methods
Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It thrives in a warm and dry climate, making it perfect for indoor cultivation. The plant prefers a well-draining soil mixture to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. When cultivating the plant indoors, ensure that it receives adequate light, preferably a bright spot, to thrive.
Watering needs
The watering needs of Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland largely depend on the environment it is in. When cultivated indoors, the plant should be watered sparingly, only when the soil has dried out entirely. This species is drought-tolerant, so it is essential to avoid overwatering to prevent the chances of root rot. During the winter season, reduce watering as the plant enters its dormant phase.
Fertilization
Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland requires occasional fertilization to thrive. It is recommended to use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half its strength. Fertilization should only be done during the growing season, from spring to summer, and once a month. It is essential to avoid over-fertilizing the plant to prevent the accumulation of salts or the likelihood of fertilizer burn.
Pruning
Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland does not require much pruning. However, to keep the plant's shape, you can remove any dead, damaged, or yellow leaves. If the plant begins to produce leggy stems, you can cut them back to promote bushier growth. It is essential to use sterile pruning equipment to avoid transmitting diseases or pests to the plant.
Propagation Methods for Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland
Propagation is the process of creating new plants from already existing individuals. Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland can be propagated using several methods, which include:
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings are the most common method of propagation used for Crassula harveyi. The leaves are cut at the base using a sharp and clean knife. The cuttings are left to cure for a day or two before inserting them into a potting medium containing a mixture of perlite and peat moss. The cuttings are inserted about a centimeter deep and should remain in a warm and light area that is protected from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. The cuttings should start developing roots in a few weeks, and can later be transplanted into a larger pot or planted in the ground.
Whole Plant Division
Whole plant division is another propagation method for Crassula harveyi. The mother plant is dug up, and the root ball is gently separated into several smaller clumps, each containing a few stems and leaves. The clumps are transplanted into a potting medium or directly into the ground. They should be kept in a warm, shaded area and watered frequently until they establish themselves.
Seeds
Crassula harveyi can also be propagated using seeds, but this method is not as common. The seeds should be collected when ripe and sown in a potting medium that contains a mixture of perlite, peat moss, and sand. The seeds should be buried about a centimeter deep and kept moist in a warm and light area. Germination can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the conditions.
Disease Management for Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens
Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens (Bolus) Schönland is relatively resistant to most common diseases, but it can still be infected by some fungal and bacterial diseases that may cause damage to the plant. To control these diseases, it is essential to maintain good plant hygiene and follow appropriate management practices.
The most common diseases that affect Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens are:
1. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects many plant species, including Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens. The disease is easily recognized by the white, powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To control powdery mildew, remove the affected parts of the plant and improve air circulation and exposure to sunlight. Fungicides may also be used to control severe infections.
2. Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that attacks the roots of the plant, causing them to decay. This disease is often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To control root rot, remove infected plants and replant in well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering and ensure adequate drainage in the pot.
Pest Management for Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens
Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens is susceptible to attack by several common pests that feed on the plant's sap or leaves. Early detection and management of these pests are essential to prevent severe damage to the plant.
The most common pests that affect Crassula harveyi Britten & Baker f. var. dependens are:
1. Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that are covered in a white, powdery wax. They often congregate in the leaf axils or on the undersides of the leaves. To control mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or neem oil may be used.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing discoloration and wilting of the leaves. They are often found on the undersides of the leaves. To control spider mites, spray the plant with water to dislodge the insects and improve humidity. Insecticidal soap or neem oil may also be used.
3. Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the stems or undersides of the leaves. They often secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold. To control scale insects, remove them manually with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol. Insecticidal soap or neem oil may also be used.
