Origin and Common Names
Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Toelken, commonly known as the String of Buttons, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. The plant is native to South Africa and is mostly found growing in the summer rainfall areas of the Eastern Cape.
Uses
Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis is a popular houseplant due to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. The plant is perfect for growing in hanging baskets or in pots placed on shelves or windowsills. The String of Buttons is also great for the garden and makes an excellent ground cover due to its trailing habit.
Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a drought-tolerant plant that is easy to care for. The plant requires minimal watering and can handle long periods of neglect.
General Appearance
The String of Buttons is a trailing succulent that grows up to 30cm in length. The plant has small, fleshy, green leaves that are arranged in pairs along a thin stalk. The leaves are shaped like miniature buttons and are about 5mm in diameter. The String of Buttons produces small white or pink flowers that appear in the spring and summer.
The plant is easy to propagate and can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or division. The plant is not toxic to humans or animals and is safe to grow around pets and wildlife.
Growth Conditions for Crassula Natans Thunb. var. Filiformis
Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Toelken, a type of succulent plant, is native to South Africa and requires specific growth conditions for optimal growth.
Light Requirements
The plant prefers bright light levels, with a minimum of 4 – 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, prolonged exposure to intense sunlight can scorch the leaves. Therefore, it can be grown indoor or outdoor but is best grown outdoor with partial to full sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Crassula natans prefers warm to hot temperatures above 60 °F (15°C). The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 70 °F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50 °F (10°C), as this could result in leaf damage or even death of the plant.
Humidity Requirements
The plant has low to moderate humidity requirements.
Soil Requirements
Crassula natans thrives in well-drained, sandy soil. A mixture of 50% coarse sand and 50% peat moss is ideal. Adding perlite to the soil mixture improves drainage and reduces the risk of root rot.
Water Requirements
The plant requires infrequent watering only when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot. During the winter, the plant can go for a more extended period without water.
Fertilizer Requirements
During the growing season, which is spring to summer, the plant requires a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the winter.
Propagation
Crassula natans can be propagated through stem or leaf cuttings, which should be allowed to callus for a week or so before planting in well-drained soil. Alternatively, it can also be propagated through seed germination, using well-draining soil and maintaining moist conditions while the seeds germinate.
Cultivation methods for Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis
Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis, commonly known as the String of Buttons, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It requires minimal care and is easy to grow, making it an ideal choice for beginners. The plant prefers bright and indirect sunlight and can be grown indoors or outdoors, provided the right cultivation methods are observed.
The plant grows well in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and is best propagated during the spring and summer seasons. One can propagate the plant through its leaves, stem, or seeds. The plant requires occasional misting to maintain healthy growth.
Watering needs for Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis
The String of Buttons requires infrequent watering, as over-watering can lead to root rot. Wait for the soil to dry out entirely before watering the plant thoroughly. During the summer season, the plant may require more frequent watering than during other seasons.
It is imperative to avoid getting the leaves wet when watering the plant as this may encourage rot. Always water the plant directly into the soil.
Fertilization for Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis
Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis does not require frequent fertilization, as its growth rate is slow. You can fertilize the plant occasionally during the growing season, using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Over-fertilization can cause the plant to lose its characteristic button-like appearance and lead to leggy growth.
Pruning for Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis
Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis requires minimal pruning, as its growth is naturally compact. However, if the plant becomes leggy, it is advisable to prune it back in the spring or summer season to encourage fuller growth.
Cut off any dead or yellowing leaves using sterile pruning shears, being careful not to cut into the stem. The cuttings can be rooted to create new plants.
Propagation of Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis
Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis or the Carpet Crassula, is commonly propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
The Carpet Crassula seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix comprising equal parts of perlite, coarse sand, and compost. It is best to sow the seeds in early spring or early autumn to ensure optimal germination. Cover the seeds lightly with the soil mix, water them thoroughly, and keep them in a partially shaded area until they germinate, which usually takes around 2-3 weeks.
Propagation through Cuttings
Another practical method of propagating the Carpet Crassula is through stem cuttings. Take cuttings of around 2-3 inches in length from the parent plant's stem during the growing season (spring-summer). Ensure the cuttings have at least two leaves each and let them dry out in a shaded area for a day before planting them in a well-draining soil mix. Water the cuttings well and keep them in a bright, partially shaded area until they root, which usually takes around 2-4 weeks.
Propagation through Division
Division is also a feasible method to propagate the Carpet Crassula. This method is best implemented when repotting the parent plant. Carefully remove the entire plant from its pot and separate its offsets or branches. Ensure that each offset has an adequate amount of roots and replant it in a fresh potting mix. Water it well and keep it in a bright, partially shaded area until it establishes itself.
Disease Management
Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis, like other plants, can suffer from various diseases. The following are some of the common diseases that can affect the plant:
- Leaf spot: Leaf spots can be caused by fungal infections, and it typically affects older leaves. It appears as brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and provide good air circulation.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by waterlogging, and it can result in the death of the plant. Overwatering is the leading cause of root rot. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, ensure that the soil is well-draining, and use sterilized containers when replanting.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To manage this disease, prune diseased parts of the plant, and improve air circulation.
Pest Management
Crassula natans Thunb. var. filiformis can also be attacked by various pests. Some of the common pests to look out for include:
- Mealybugs: These pests appear as white, cottony masses on the plant's leaves and stems. To manage mealybugs, remove any infested parts of the plant and use rubbing alcohol to wipe affected areas. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can also be used.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and wilting of the plant. They create webs on the undersides of leaves. To manage spider mites, rinse the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used.
- Scale insects: Scale insects appear as tiny, colored bumps on the plant. They suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To manage scale insects, scrape off the scales with a cloth or brush, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular monitoring, good sanitation practices, and proper plant care can help prevent the spread of pests and diseases. When dealing with severe infestations or infections, it's best to consult a plant care professional.
