Overview
Crassula subsessilis W.F.Barker is a striking succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to South Africa, where it is found growing in rocky outcrops and cliffs.
Common Names
Crassula subsessilis is commonly referred to as the Silver Jade Plant or the Wooden Kebbie. It is also known as the Stonecrop plant, which is a term used to describe a group of plants in the family Crassulaceae that are often grown for their ornamental value.
Description
The Crassula subsessilis is a small, slow-growing plant that can reach up to 6 inches (15 cm) in height. It has short, fleshy stems that are covered in tiny, silvery-green leaves. The leaves are triangular in shape and have a pointed tip, and are arranged in rosettes. In the summer, the plant produces small, white or pink flowers that are borne on short stems.
This plant has a unique appearance, thanks to its dense branching habit and its thick, waxy leaves that give it a soft, fluffy appearance. Its stems are woody, and the plant has a natural bonsai-like appearance.
Uses
Crassula subsessilis is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens, terrariums, and indoor planters thanks to its slow-growing nature and low maintenance requirements. It can also be grown in outdoor spaces that get partial shade and require little watering.
Its leaves are sometimes harvested for traditional medicine purposes and are said to have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
In conclusion, Crassula subsessilis is an attractive and unique-looking succulent that is primarily grown as an ornamental plant. Its dense branching habit and soft, silvery leaves make it a perfect choice for rock gardens, terrariums, and indoor planters. Additionally, it is a hardy plant and requires little maintenance, making it a favorite amongst plant lovers.Light Requirements
Crassula subsessilis thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing the plant near a south, east, or west-facing window is ideal but it should be protected from direct sunlight. As a succulent, it is capable of tolerating short periods of low light but prolonged exposure to low light conditions can lead to elongated stems and unhealthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
Crassula subsessilis prefers warm temperatures ranging from 65-75°F (18-24°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can stall growth and cause damage to the plant. Intense heat above 85°F (29°C) can also damage the plant. It is important to avoid placing the plant near drafty windows, doors or air conditioning vents which can cause sudden temperature changes.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Crassula subsessilis is well-draining and nutrient-rich. A mix containing equal parts of perlite, sand, gravel and potting soil or cactus mix is an excellent option. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil which can cause root rot and other soil-borne diseases. When repotting, it is recommended to replace the soil every two years.
Cultivation
Crassula subsessilis W.F.Barker is a succulent plant that is easy to cultivate. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate. If grown indoors, it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Outdoors, it should be planted in an area that receives partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil and should be planted in a pot with drainage holes if grown indoors.
Watering Needs
Crassula subsessilis W.F.Barker is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require frequent watering. It should be watered only when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. When watering, it is important to avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause damage or rot.
Fertilization
Crassula subsessilis W.F.Barker does not require frequent fertilization. However, it can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied once per month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Pruning
Crassula subsessilis W.F.Barker does not require frequent pruning. However, it can be pruned to shape it or to remove dead or damaged leaves. Pruning should be done in the spring or summer, when the plant is actively growing. To prune, simply use clean, sharp scissors to cut the desired branches or leaves at the base.
Propagation of Crassula subsessilis W.F.Barker
The Crassula subsessilis W.F.Barker, also known as silver jade plant, can be propagated through various methods like division, cuttings, and seeds.
Division
Division is the most common method to propagate Crassula subsessilis. This process entails separating the plant into several smaller plants and repotting them. It is best to perform division during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To do this, remove the plant from the pot and gently separate it into smaller plants with their roots attached. Make sure each new plant has enough roots to support itself. Repot each new plant in a pot with fresh soil and water it well.
Cuttings
Another propagation method is through stem cuttings. This is a simple and straightforward method that involves taking cuttings from the mother plant and rooting them in a pot filled with moist soil. Take a healthy stem cutting that is at least 3-4 inches long, remove the lower leaves, and let the cutting dry for a day or two. Once the cutting has dried, plant it in a pot with good-draining soil. Water the cutting and keep it in a semi-shaded area until it begins to root.
Seeds
If none of the above-mentioned propagation methods work for you, you can propagate Crassula subsessilis through seeds. Collect the seeds from the plant when they are ripe, sow them in a pot filled with well-draining soil, and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil and keep it moist until the seeds germinate. It may take 2–3 weeks for the seeds to germinate.
Propagation of Crassula subsessilis W.F.Barker is a simple and easy process as long as you take proper care of the plant and follow the instructions carefully.
Disease and Pest Management for Crassula subsessilis
Crassula subsessilis is an attractive and hardy succulent plant that is grown extensively in homes and gardens. However, like all plants, it is also prone to diseases and pests that can cause significant damage if left unattended. Here is a list of common diseases and pests that affect the Crassula subsessilis and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Root Rot: Overwatering, poor drainage, and the use of infected soil can lead to root rot in the Crassula subsessilis. The first sign of root rot is yellowing of leaves, followed by wilting and ultimately, rotting of roots. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering, use well-draining soil, and maintain proper drainage by using a pot with drainage holes. If already infected, remove the plant from the soil, trim the affected roots and replant in fresh soil.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by fungal infections and is characterized by the appearance of brownish or blackish spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and discard them, avoid watering the leaves of the plant, and ensure proper air circulation.
3. Stem Rot: Stem rot affects the stem of the plant, causing it to turn brown or black and feel mushy. Overwatering, poor ventilation, and the use of infected soil can lead to stem rot. To prevent stem rot, avoid overwatering, maintain proper ventilation, and use well-draining soil. If already infected, remove the infected parts of the stem and treat the healthy parts with a fungicide.
Common Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are tiny white insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To manage mealybugs, remove them by hand or use a cotton swab soaked in alcohol to wipe them off the leaves and stems. You can also use an insecticidal soap to kill mealybugs.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. They typically appear as tiny red or brown dots on the underside of the leaves. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with water, spray it with neem oil or insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
3. Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. They appear as small brown or black bumps on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage scale insects, remove them by hand or use a cotton swab soaked in alcohol to wipe them off the plant.
Regular inspection and maintaining good hygiene around the plant is essential to keep pests and diseases at bay. Avoid overcrowding the plant, and provide adequate air circulation and sunlight to encourage healthy growth.
