Overview
Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. parvisepala (Schönland) Schönland is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. It is a subspecies of the Crassula rubicunda species and it is native to the Cape Province of South Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Red Crassula, Ruby Crassula or Red Pagoda.
Appearance
The Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. parvisepala (Schönland) Schönland is a small, compact, and low-growing plant that can reach up to 10 cm in height. It has succulent leaves that are arranged in opposite pairs and are bright green in color. The edges of the leaves have a reddish hue, which becomes more prominent in bright sunlight. The flowers of the plant are small, pinkish-red and are grouped together in small clusters at the top of the stems.
Uses
The Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. parvisepala (Schönland) Schönland is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and low-maintenance requirements. It can be grown in pots or as a ground cover in rock gardens. It prefers well-drained soils and moderate watering. The plant is also known to have medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties and can be used to treat wounds and skin irritations.
Light Requirements
Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. parvisepala (Schönland) Schönland grows best in bright indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can damage the leaves and cause them to wilt or turn brown. If grown indoors, it is best to place the plant near a sunny window that gets eastern or southern exposure.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers moderate temperatures between 60 and 75°F (15-24°C) during the day and cooler temperatures between 50 and 55°F (10-13°C) at night. It is important to avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 40°F (4.5°C) or above 90°F (32°C) as this can cause damage to the leaves and stem.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil that is loosely packed and contains sand or perlite to increase drainage. A peat-based soil mixed with sand or perlite will work well. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this plant is susceptible to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out somewhat between watering and avoid leaving the plant in standing water.
Cultivation Method for Crassula Rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. Parvisepal
Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. parvisepala (Schönland) Schönland is a succulent plant that easily adapts to various environmental conditions. However, optimal growth requires adequate sunlight and temperatures, well-drained soil, and proper watering.
To cultivate the plant, ensure that the soil's pH ranges from 6.0-7.0. Therefore, use a mixture of organic matter and grit to assist in soil water circulation. The plant favors a humid atmosphere; thus, placing a tray with pebbles filled with water underneath the pot will help create the appropriate environment.
Watering Needs of Crassula Rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. Parvisepala
One of the simplest ways to kill succulent plants is through overwatering. Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. parvisepala requires watering once a week, or when the soil is entirely dry.
During winter, reduce watering to once every three weeks to minimize the threat of root rot. The plant has roots that easily rot; therefore, avoid keeping the soil damp for too long.
Fertilization of Crassula Rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. Parvisepala
The plant needs fertilizer during spring and summer using a balanced liquid fertilizer. Use a diluted solution at half strength and apply after watering the plant. Overfertilizing the plant will cause the roots to burn, which will result in the plant's death.
Pruning Crassula Rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. Parvisepala
Pruning Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. parvisepala (Schönland) Schönland is easy and recommended to maintain the plant's shape and remove diseased or damaged parts. Ensure that you use sterilized pruning shears to minimize risks of infections.
Prune the plant during its active growth period when new leaves and stems are emerging. Also, remove yellow or brown leaves to encourage new growth. The cuttings obtained during pruning can also be rooted to grow into new plants.
Propagation of Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. parvisepala (Schönland) Schönland
The Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. parvisepala (Schönland) Schönland, commonly known as Red Pagoda, is a succulent plant that is easy to grow and propagate. The plant is propagated through a variety of methods including leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, and division.
Leaf Cuttings:
Leaf cuttings are the easiest way to propagate Red Pagoda. Select a healthy leaf from the plant and gently twist it off. Make sure that the leaf stem is intact and allow it to dry for a day or two. Place the leaf on a potting mix and keep it moist. After two to three weeks, tiny plantlets will emerge from the base of the leaf.
Stem Cuttings:
Stem cuttings are another way to propagate Red Pagoda. Cut a healthy stem from the plant and allow it to dry for few days. Then, plant the stem in moist potting mix. The new plant will sprout from the cut end of the stem.
Division:
Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. parvisepala (Schönland) Schönland can be easily divided during repotting. Remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the roots into two or more sections. Each section should have an equal amount of roots and foliage. Then, plant each section in a separate pot.
With proper care and attention, the newly propagated Red Pagoda plantlets can grow into full-fledged mature plants.
Disease Management
Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. parvisepala (Schönland) Schönland is usually a healthy plant when given good care, but sometimes it may fall prey to a few diseases. Here are some of the common diseases that affect this plant:
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease is characterized by the appearance of brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this, remove the affected leaves and spray a fungicide on the plant.
- Root Rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot, which will eventually lead to the death of the plant. To manage this, remove the affected plant and improve the drainage of the soil.
- Powdery Mildew: A white, powdery substance on the leaves is a sign of powdery mildew. To manage this, use a fungicide or a solution of water and neem oil.
Pest Management
Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. parvisepala (Schönland) Schönland is usually free of pests, but when grown in unfavorable conditions, it can fall prey to a few pests. Here are some of the common pests that affect this plant:
- Spider Mites: These tiny bugs will cause discoloration and early leaf drop. To manage this, introduce predatory mites or use a solution of water and insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These insects resemble cotton and will cause stunted growth. To manage this, remove the affected plant parts and spray a solution of water and neem oil.
- Scale Insects: These insects attach themselves to the plant and suck sap from the tissues. They can be managed by using a solution of water and neem oil.
