Origin
Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland belongs to the family Crassulaceae and originates from Lesotho, a small kingdom located in Southern Africa. It is commonly found growing in rocky areas, cliffs and crevices along streams, at altitudes between 1000-1800m.
Common names
The plant is commonly known by various names, including Lesotho stonecrop, woolly crassula, and Basotho stonecrop.
Uses
Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland is used for medicinal purposes by some traditional healers. It is believed to have healing properties for ailments such as skin diseases, fever, and inflammation. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant, especially in rock gardens and pot cultivation.
General appearance
Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland is a succulent perennial plant that grows up to 15 cm in height. The plant has a multi-branched stem that is woody at the base and greenish-brown in color. The leaves of the plant are up to 3cm in length, fleshy and densely covered in white hairs. The leaves are arranged in a rosette formation at the end of the stems. The flowers of the plant are small, white to pale pink, and grow in loose clusters at the top of the stems during the summer season.
Light Requirements
The Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland plant requires a good amount of sunlight to grow properly. It can grow outside, in bright shade or partial sunlight. However, indoor light conditions should mimic bright sunlight as much as possible to ensure proper growth.
Temperature Requirements
The Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland plant is native to the mountainous regions of Southern Africa. Therefore, it prefers cooler temperatures and can withstand a few degrees of frost. The ideal temperature for growth ranges from 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C). It is essential to protect the plant from extreme heat or cold conditions.
Soil Requirements
The Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland plant prefers well-drained soil with good aeration. A soil mixture composed of peat moss, sand, and perlite can provide an ideal environment for growth. It also prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Overwatering should be avoided at all costs, as it can cause root rot and damage the plant.
Cultivation methods:
The Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland plant is a beautiful succulent that requires well-draining soil for proper cultivation. It prefers to grow in bright, indirect light and dry conditions. This plant can be propagated using stem cuttings in spring and summer months.
Watering needs:
The Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland plant is drought-tolerant, so be careful not to over-water it. It needs watering only when the soil is completely dry, usually once every 10 to 14 days during the growing season. Reduce watering during the winter months to prevent root rot.
Fertilization:
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to feed the plant once a month during the growing season, i.e., spring and summer. Follow the instructions on the package for the right dose. Avoid fertilizing during winter months, as the plant is dormant and doesn't need feeding.
Pruning:
The Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland plant doesn't require much pruning. However, removing dead or damaged leaves regularly can help the plant grow healthier. You can also trim the plant back to shape it or prevent it from getting too leggy. Do not over-prune, as this can weaken the plant.
Propagation Methods for Crassula Setulosa Harv. var. Basutica Schönland
Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland, commonly known as Basutoland or Harland's Crassula, is a succulent plant species that is endemic to South Africa. Propagation of this plant species can be done through various methods, including:
Leaf Cutting Propagation
One of the easiest and most effective ways to propagate Crassula setulosa is through leaf cutting propagation. This method involves taking a healthy leaf from the parent plant and allowing it to dry for a few days. Once the leaf has dried out, it can be placed in a suitable potting mix or directly into the soil. Over time, the leaf will produce roots that will develop into a new plant.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Propagating Crassula setulosa through stem cutting is another effective method. In this method, a stem cutting is taken from the parent plant and allowed to dry for a few days. Once the cutting has dried, it can be planted into a suitable potting mix or directly into the soil. Over time, the cutting will produce roots and will develop into a new plant.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Crassula setulosa through seeds can be a bit challenging. The seeds are very small, and it can take a while for them to germinate. For best results, the seeds should be planted into a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. It may take several weeks for the seeds to germinate, and it is important to keep them in a warm and bright place.
Disease Management
One of the common diseases that affects Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland is powdery mildew. This disease is characterized by the presence of a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove any infected plant parts, improve air circulation around the plant, and apply a fungicide. In addition, it is important to avoid overhead watering and to maintain proper spacing between plants.
Another disease that can affect Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland is root rot. This disease is caused by various fungi and is characterized by the rotting of the roots, leading to wilting and death of the plant. To manage root rot, it is important to avoid over-watering the plant and to ensure proper drainage. In addition, it is recommended to remove any infected plant parts and to apply a fungicide.
Pest Management
One of the common pests that can affect Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland is mealybugs. These pests are small, white insects that can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage mealybugs, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or to physically remove the pests with a cotton swab or toothbrush.
Another pest that can affect Crassula setulosa Harv. var. basutica Schönland is spider mites. These pests are also small and can cause damage to the leaves of the plant. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to improve air circulation around the plant, remove any infected plant parts, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
