Overview of Crassula orbicularis L.
Crassula orbicularis L. is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It is a member of the Crassulaceae family and is commonly known as the round-leaved crassula. This plant is highly valued for its unique appearance and ease of care, and it is a popular choice amongst gardeners and collectors alike.
General Appearance of Crassula orbicularis L.
The Crassula orbicularis L. is a small, compact plant that typically grows to be about 10-12cm in height. It features thick, fleshy leaves that are round and slightly cupped. The leaves are a beautiful blue-grey color and have a noticeable vein pattern that is particularly striking when the plant is backlit. This plant produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer months.
Common Names of Crassula orbicularis L.
Crassula orbicularis L. is commonly referred to as the round-leaved crassula, the penny crassula, and the blue-gray crassula. It is also known by its synonym, Crassula ovata var. orbicularis.
Uses of Crassula orbicularis L.
The Crassula orbicularis L. is primarily used as an ornamental plant and is highly sought after by collectors and gardeners for its unique appearance. It is an easy-to-care-for plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors, making it a versatile addition to any garden or collection. Some people also believe that this plant has medicinal properties and use it to treat minor ailments such as headaches and skin irritations.
Light requirements
Crassula orbicularis is known to thrive in bright light, even direct sunlight. However, it is best to provide some protection from the intense midday sun to avoid scorching. In indoor settings, placing the plant near a south-facing window with sheer curtains or a sheer curtain rod can provide adequate light.
Temperature requirements
This plant is an ideal plant for warm conditions. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (15-24°C). They can withstand slightly higher temperatures if provided with adequate ventilation, but be aware that this plant does not tolerate frosty conditions well.
Soil requirements
Crassula orbicularis grows well in well-draining soils. A soil mix containing equal parts of sand, perlite, and peat moss can work well for this plant. A pH range of 6-7.5 is also ideal for its growth, as it doesn't tolerate overly acidic or alkaline soils. It is essential to ensure that the soil is not kept too moist and that there is proper drainage, as they are prone to root rot if watered too frequently.
Cultivation
Crassula orbicularis L. is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors. For indoor cultivation, the plant requires bright, indirect light. However, outdoor plants need partial sun to thrive.
The plant prefers well-draining soil and containers with good drainage. The soil should be a mixture of loam, sand, and pumice in equal proportions. You should avoid overwatering the plant as it may cause root rot.
Propagation of the plant can be done through leaf cuttings or stem cuttings. Leaf cuttings should be left to dry for a few days and then planted directly into the soil. However, stem cuttings are best left to dry for a week before being planted.
Watering Needs
The plant requires little water and should be watered sparingly. You should water the plant only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot, which may lead to the death of the plant. Watering the plant from below is preferable. This method ensures that the water reaches the roots without saturating the soil.
Fertilization
The Crassula orbicularis L. does not require regular fertilization. However, during its growth period, which is in the spring and summer months, you can fertilize the plant every two weeks using a fertilizer solution. You should use a fertilizer with a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, such as a 10-10-10 dual-purpose fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning the Crassula orbicularis L. is not necessary. However, it is advisable to remove any yellow or dead leaves to maintain the plant's appearance. Trimming the plant will also encourage the growth of new shoots and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.
Propagation of Crassula orbicularis L.
Crassula orbicularis L. is a succulent plant that can be easily propagated through different methods. The most common propagation methods include:
1. Leaf cuttings
Leaf cuttings are the most common and easiest way to propagate Crassula orbicularis L. To propagate through leaf cuttings, follow these steps:
- Select a healthy and mature leaf from the parent plant.
- Gently twist the leaf from the stem to remove it without damaging the plant.
- Allow the leaf to dry for a day or two until the cut end calluses over.
- Plant the leaf into a pot filled with well-draining soil mix.
- Keep the soil slightly moist and avoid overwatering.
- Within a few weeks, tiny plantlets will appear at the base of the leaf.
2. Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are another way to propagate Crassula orbicularis L. This method involves cutting a stem from the plant and planting it into soil until it develops roots. Follow these steps:
- Select a healthy stem from the parent plant.
- Cut a section of the stem, preferably 5-7 cm long, just below a leaf node.
- Allow the stem to dry for a day or two until the cut end calluses over.
- Plant the stem into a pot filled with well-draining soil mix.
- Water the soil lightly and avoid overwatering.
- Within a few weeks, the stem will develop roots and new growth will appear.
3. Division
Crassula orbicularis L. can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and planting them into individual pots. Follow these steps:
- Carefully remove the plant from its pot.
- Gently separate the plant into smaller sections, making sure that each has enough roots and leaves to sustain itself.
- Plant each section into individual pots filled with well-draining soil mix.
- Water the soil lightly and avoid overwatering.
- Within a few weeks, the new plants will establish themselves and start growing.
With these propagation methods, it is easy to propagate Crassula orbicularis L. and increase your collection of these beautiful plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Crassula Orbicularis L.
Crassula orbicularis L. is a succulent plant that is generally easy to maintain and resistant to disease and pest infestations. However, several pests and disease problems can pose a threat to the plant's health if not taken care of properly.
Common Diseases
1. Root rot: Overwatering can lead to waterlogged soils and fungal growth, causing the roots to rot. The leaves turn brown, wilt and fall off. To manage root rot, it is necessary to reduce watering and modify some appropriate drainage measures, including repotting the plant in a soilless growing media containing peat moss, perlite or vermiculite.
2. Leaf spot: Leaf spot is caused by a fungus and can manifest as dark, water-soaked spots on the leaves. The spots enlarge and merge to form necrotic patches, causing the leaves to yellow and wilt. To control leaf spot, affected leaves need to be pruned and destroyed to prevent the spread of spores. A fungicide spray can be applied preventively.
Common Pests
1. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that thrive in hot and dry conditions. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow, dry and fall off. To prevent spider mites infestation, it is necessary to maintain adequate humidity levels and isolate the affected plant. Providing regular misting is also helpful to these plants.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects that are covered with a white, waxy coating. They suck on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage mealybugs infestation, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them, or use a neem oil spray to kill them.
To keep your Crassula orbicularis L. plants healthy, provide them with the right growing conditions, including adequate drainage, moderate watering and temperature, and good air circulation. Always monitor the plants carefully for any signs of abnormality, and quickly take steps to manage any pest or disease issues that arise.
