Origin and Common Names
The plant Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland, commonly known as the Water Crassula, is a semi-aquatic succulent that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. It is native to the eastern and southern parts of Africa, including countries like Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Water Crassula is an aquatic plant with a unique growth habit that adapts to both submerged and partially rooted conditions.Appearance
Water Crassula is a small freshwater plant that measures around 5-15 cm in height. It features narrow, oblong shaped leaves that are arranged in a whorled pattern around the stem. The succulent's leaves are sessile and a vivid shade of green, with a glossy texture that works well for absorbing sunlight. The plant also boasts small white flowers that bloom at the end of thin stems. One unique characteristic of Water Crassula is that it is able to adapt its appearance to suit different conditions. In submerged conditions, the plant's leaves take on a shorter and wider shape to adapt to the light conditions in the underwater environment.Uses
Water Crassula is a popular plant in the aquarium trade for aquatic setups. It works well as a foreground plant, can help reduce algae growth and absorb excess nutrients in the water. This aquatic plant is also used by several communities in Africa for medicinal purposes because of its stress-relieving and calming properties. In addition, Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland, also plays a vital role in improving water quality since it purifies water by removing contaminants and pollutants. Lastly, it is also used for ornamental purposes in garden ponds due to its aesthetic and pleasing appeal.Light Requirements
The Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland plant requires bright and indirect sunlight. Avoid placing it under direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves. The plant will thrive when placed in a south-facing window where it receives several hours of bright but indirect light per day. Artificial light can also be used to supplement natural light during the winter season when sunlight is scarce.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland is between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). This succulent plant prefers warmer temperatures but can tolerate cold temperatures during dormant periods. Avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperatures and sudden changes as it can cause damage to the leaves and roots.
Soil Requirements
The Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 6 to 7. The ideal soil mixture is a blend of cactus or succulent soil, coarse sand, and perlite or pumice. This succulent plant is susceptible to root rot, so avoid using heavy soils that hold moisture for extended periods.
Cultivation of Crassula Natans Thunb. Forma Fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland
Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland, also known as the floating crassula, is a lovely plant that can add beauty and elegance to any aquatic garden. Before planting this aquatic plant, ensure that your aquascape environment mimics the species' natural habitat.
You can grow Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans in either a pond or aquarium as long as you provide the plant with the right growing conditions. In an aquarium, keep the water temperature between 70-80°F, while in an outdoor pond, ensure that it stays around 60°F. Keep the pH between 6.8-7.5, and the water hardness below 8 dKH.
Watering Needs of Crassula Natans Thunb. Forma Fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland
Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland requires freshwater with regular water changes. Change 20-30% of the water once a week. While changing the water, don't forget to remove any debris in the water. Avoid using chemical fertilizers while changing the water as they can adversely affect the aquatic plants in the aquatic environment.
It's best to grow Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans in nutrient-rich gravel. In this way, the plant can access the nutrients required to thrive. Ensure that the gravel is free of hydrogen sulfide; otherwise, it will adversely affect anything within the aquarium or pond by contributing to poor water quality.
Fertilization Methods for Crassula Natans Thunb. Forma Fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland
Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland requires regular fertilization during the growing stage to thrive. Use a slow-release aquatic plant fertilizer or root tabs to provide adequate nutrition to your plant. Fertilize the plant once a month in a pond or every two weeks in an aquarium.
Always read the manufacturer's instructions before applying any fertilizer to your aquatic garden. Over-fertilization can cause algae growth, which can harm the health of the plant. If you notice any discoloration in the foliage, adjust the fertilization method to avoid further damage to the plant.
Pruning Techniques for Crassula Natans Thunb. Forma Fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland
Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland doesn't require frequent pruning because it grows relatively slowly. However, you may need to prune your plant to maintain a desired shape or size. To do this, remove the leaves or stems using a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears, taking care not to damage the remaining foliage or buds.
To avoid stunted growth, prune your Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans regularly. Avoid cutting more than a third of the plant's foliage in one go. Lastly, also remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant healthy and disease-free.
Propagation of Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans
Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland can be propagated through various methods. Some common methods are:
Leaf Cuttings
One of the most common propagation methods for this plant is through leaf cuttings. Select a healthy leaf from the plant and gently remove it from the stem. Allow the leaf to dry for a few hours to form a callus over the cut edge. Then plant the leaf in well-draining soil, and keep it slightly moist. After a few weeks, roots will start to appear, and a young plant will develop from the base of the leaf.
Stem Cuttings
Crassula natans can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and cut it carefully at a 45-degree angle. Allow the stem to dry for a few hours, then plant it in well-draining soil. Water lightly and keep it in a bright, warm spot. Within a few weeks, the stem will start to grow roots and produce new leaves.
Division
Another propagation method is through dividing the plant. Gently remove the entire plant from its pot and separate the individual stems with roots. Plant each stem in a pot with well-draining soil, water lightly, and keep in a warm, bright spot. Over time, each stem will grow into a new plant.
Seed Propagation
Crassula natans can also be propagated through seeds. Collect mature seeds from the plant and plant them in a mixture of perlite and peat moss. Keep the soil moist and warm, placing the pot in a bright spot with filtered sunlight. Within a few weeks, the seeds will germinate, and young plants will start to grow.
Disease Management
Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland is generally a hardy plant, but it may still be susceptible to certain diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant are:
- Rust: This is a fungal disease that causes orange or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage it, remove the infected parts of the plant, increase air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
- Root Rot: This is a condition that is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. The plant's roots rot, which causes the leaves to wilt and turn yellow. To manage it, reduce watering, improve drainage, and consider repotting the plant.
- Leaf Spots: This is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage it, remove the infected parts of the plant, avoid overhead watering, and improve air circulation.
Pest Management
Crassula natans Thunb. forma fluitans (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Schönland may also be susceptible to pest infestations. The most common pests that affect this plant are:
- Mealybugs: These pests are small white insects that look like bits of cotton. They typically feed on the undersides of leaves and cause yellowing and wilting. To manage them, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them, use insecticidal soap, or introduce predators like ladybugs.
- Scale Insects: These pests are small, immobile insects that protect themselves with a hard shell. They feed on the sap of the plant and cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage them, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them, use insecticidal soap, or introduce predators like ladybugs.
- Aphids: These pests are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They cause curling, yellowing, and wilting of the leaves. To manage them, use insecticidal soap, introduce predators like ladybugs, or use a strong stream of water to blast them off the plant.
Regular inspection and early detection of pests and diseases can help prevent them from spreading and causing serious damage. It's also important to maintain good plant hygiene by removing dead and diseased plant material and avoiding overcrowding of plants.
