Overview
Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. subglabra Schönland is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is a variation of the Crassula rubicunda species and is commonly known as the Red Pagoda.
Origin
The Red Pagoda is native to South Africa, particularly in the Eastern and Western Cape provinces. It thrives in warm and humid environments and can be found growing in various habitats such as rocky outcrops, cliffs, and sandy soils.
General Appearance
The Red Pagoda is a perennial, branching succulent that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has fleshy leaves arranged in a rosette and has a gray-green color with a reddish tint on the edges. The flower clusters are pink in color and bloom from late winter to early spring.
Uses
The Red Pagoda is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens, rockeries, and containers. It is easy to maintain and adds color to any space. This succulent is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as skin irritations and burns. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Light Requirements
The Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. subglabra Schönland prefers to grow in bright and indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade but avoids direct and intense sunlight. If exposed to too much light, the leaves of the plant may turn yellow or brown.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can thrive in a range of temperatures between 50°F to 85°F (10°C to 29°C). At temperatures below 50°F, the plant slows its growth, and below freezing temperatures can cause permanent damage to the plant. On the other hand, the plant may suffer from sunburn when placed in temperatures above 85°F.
Soil Requirements
Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. subglabra Schönland grows best in a well-draining soil mixture. The soil should be airy and quick-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A recommended soil mixture consists of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite in equal parts. The soil should also be slightly acidic, with a pH level around 6 to 7.
Cultivation Method for Crassula rubicunda var. subglabra Schönland
Crassula rubicunda var. subglabra Schönland is a succulent plant that is popular among gardeners for its small size and easy growth. To cultivate this plant, you should provide it with a well-draining soil mix, such as cactus soil, that is rich in organic matter. Additionally, it is important to plant Crassula rubicunda var. subglabra Schönland in a container that has sufficient drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
Watering Needs for Crassula rubicunda var. subglabra Schönland
When it comes to watering Crassula rubicunda var. subglabra Schönland, it is important to avoid overwatering, which can cause the roots to rot. This plant prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently. During the growing season, you should water the plant once a week or when the soil has completely dried out. In winter, water only once every two to three weeks.
Fertilization of Crassula rubicunda var. subglabra Schönland
Fertilization is essential to help Crassula rubicunda var. subglabra Schönland thrive and grow well. During the growing season, you should fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. At the beginning of spring, you should apply an organic fertilizer that is high in nitrogen to encourage healthy growth and development.
Pruning of Crassula rubicunda var. subglabra Schönland
Pruning is not necessary for the Crassula rubicunda var. subglabra Schönland plant. However, you can remove dead or faded leaves using a pair of sterilized pruning shears. This will prevent the plant from wasting energy on maintaining dead leaves and allow it to focus on producing new and healthy foliage. In addition, you can pinch back the stem tips to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. subglabra Schönland
Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. subglabra Schönland can be propagated by four primary methods: stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, division, and seed.
Stem Cuttings
To propagate Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. subglabra Schönland from stem cuttings, take a healthy stem cutting with a few leaf nodes. Let the cutting dry for a few days until a callus forms, and then plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until roots form.
Leaf Cuttings
To propagate Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. subglabra Schönland from leaf cuttings, select a healthy, mature leaf and remove it from the plant. Let the leaf dry for a few days until a callus forms, and then place it on top of well-draining soil. Water the soil sparingly, and roots should form in a few weeks.
Division
Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. subglabra Schönland can also be propagated by division. Gently remove the plant from its pot and separate the individual plants. Plant each new plant in its container, and water the soil sparingly.
Seed
To propagate Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. subglabra Schönland from seed, sow the seeds in well-draining soil and cover them with a thin layer of sand. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, bright location. Germination should occur within 14 to 21 days.
Disease and Pest Management for Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. subglabra Schönland
Crassula rubicunda Drège ex Harv. var. subglabra Schönland is an ornamental plant that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. It is native to South Africa and is commonly known as Red Pagoda. Like other plants, this species is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. Overwatering, poor drainage, and overcrowding are the primary causes of root rot. Symptoms of root rot include wilting leaves, yellowing of leaves, and a foul odor. To manage root rot, it is essential to improve soil drainage, reduce watering frequency, and avoid overcrowding. If caught early, the affected plant can be saved by removing the affected parts and replanting in fresh soil.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. Symptoms of leaf spot include brown or black spots on the leaves, which might merge and cause leaf death. To manage leaf spot, remove the affected parts of the plant and avoid overhead watering. Watering the plant from the base helps to prevent splashback of fungal spores.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, soft-bodied insects that are covered in a white, waxy substance. They suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybugs, first, isolate the affected plant to prevent infestation of other plants. Secondly, remove the mealybugs manually or clean the plant with a cloth soaked in soapy water. Lastly, apply horticultural oil or neem oil to prevent re-infestation.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are microscopic insects that cause damage to the plant by sucking sap from the leaves. They are common in hot and dry conditions. Symptoms of spider mite infestation include yellow, stippled, and sometimes bronzed leaves. To manage spider mites, isolate the affected plant, and spray the leaves with a strong jet of water. Repeat several times a week and ensure the plant is kept in humid conditions. Alternatively, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, brown, and have a hard shell-like covering. They suck sap from the plant and cause wilting and yellowing of leaves. To manage scale insects, first, isolate the affected plant and remove the scales manually. Secondly, clean the plant with a cloth soaked in soapy water. Lastly, apply insecticidal oil or neem oil to prevent re-infestation.
Regular monitoring of the plant and prompt action in case of an infestation or disease outbreak is key to maintaining the health of the plant.
