Origin and Common Names
Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii is a succulent plant species belonging to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to eastern and southern Africa, including Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. The plant is commonly known as the Pebble Plant, Watch Chain Crassula, Necklace Plant, or Rattail Crassula.Appearance
Crassula volkensii subsp. volkensii has a distinctive appearance, featuring long, almost cylindrical leaves that grow in a dense, clustered arrangement. The leaves are up to 5 centimeters long and 2 millimeters wide, with a greyish-green color and a smooth, shiny texture. They taper at the tips and are slightly curved, resembling the tail of a rat or a chain of beads, hence the common names. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that grow on thin stems above the foliage. The flowers are typically about 2 millimeters in diameter and have four petals, blooming in late spring or early summer.Uses
Crassula volkensii subsp. volkensii is mostly grown as an ornamental plant worldwide, appreciated for its unique appearance and easy care. It is suitable for gardens, rockeries, and containers, and it can thrive in dry or semi-shaded locations. The plant is drought-tolerant and prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. In traditional medicine, some African cultures use the Pebble Plant as a remedy for skin disorders, wounds, and stomach ailments, although scientific evidence is scarce. The plant contains some organic compounds, including alkaloids, terpenoids, and flavonoids, that could have potential medicinal properties. However, its use should be under medical supervision and only after consulting a healthcare provider.Light Requirements
Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii requires full sunlight exposure or partial shade to flourish. It grows best in bright light and can handle direct sunlight exposure for up to six hours a day. If the plant receives inadequate light, it becomes etiolated and leggy.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to East Africa and prefers temperatures between 20 to 30 °C (68 to 86 °F) during the growing season. During winter, the temperature range of 10 to 15 °C (50 to 59 °F) is ideal. It can tolerate up to 40 °C (104 °F) for short periods if provided with adequate water.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in different types of soil, but it thrives in well-draining sandy or loamy soil. The plant requires soil that is not compact and offers adequate aeration and drainage. It prefers a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and is not tolerant of waterlogged soil.
Cultivation
Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii is a drought-tolerant succulent that prefers well-drained sandy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It should be planted in a pot with proper drainage holes to prevent the roots from rotting.
Propagation from stem cuttings or leaves is easy. Make sure the cuttings or leaves are fully dry before planting them in moist soil. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings or leaves start to grow new roots and leaves.
Watering Needs
Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii is a succulent that can tolerate drought, but it still needs regular watering. Water the plant when the soil is completely dry, but be sure not to overwater it, as this can cause root rot.
During the winter months, reduce watering to once a month or when the plant starts to show signs of thirst, such as wrinkling leaves.
Fertilization
Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii does not need frequent fertilization, but it benefits from occasional feeding during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half strength every two weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii doesn't require frequent pruning. However, if the stems become leggy or elongated, you can pinch off the tips of the stems to promote bushier growth. Also, remove any dead or dying leaves to keep the plant healthy and tidy.
Propagation of Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii
Propagation of Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii can be done through various methods. The most common methods are:
Leaf cuttings
Leaf cuttings are the most common and easiest method of propagating Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii. Take a healthy leaf from the plant and let it dry for a few days until a callus forms at the bottom. Plant the leaf in well-draining soil and water moderately. The leaf will start to root and new plants will emerge from the base of the leaf.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii. Take a healthy stem cutting from the plant, making sure to include at least one node. Let the cutting dry for a few days until a callus forms at the bottom. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water moderately. The cutting will start to root and new plants will emerge from the base of the cutting.
Division
Division can be done on more mature plants of Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the root system into smaller pieces. Each piece should have its own stem and roots. Replant each piece in its own pot with well-draining soil and water moderately.
Propagation of Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii is relatively easy and can be done year-round, with the exception of winter months when the plant goes dormant.
Disease and Pest Management for Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii
Crassula volkensii Engl. subsp. volkensii is a succulent that is susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Preventive measures and early detection are essential in managing these issues.
Common Diseases and Their Management
1. Leaf and stem rot: This disease mostly occurs due to overwatering or improper drainage. The leaves and stem of the plant start turning black or brown and can eventually fall off.
Management: The infected parts should be removed immediately, and the plant should be placed in a drier environment. Watering should be reduced, and well-draining soil should be used to prevent relapse.
2. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that results in a white, powdery covering on the leaves and stems of the plant.
Management: Infected leaves should be removed immediately and destroyed. To prevent the spread of the disease, the plant should be isolated from other plants, and a fungicide spray should be applied.
Common Pests and Their Management
1. Spider mites: These pests are tiny, and you might not notice them until their population grows. They suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow or brown.
Management: The plant should be quarantined immediately, and then you should either use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of the spider mites. Adequate watering is essential as spider mites thrive in dry environments.
2. Mealybugs: These bugs look like white cotton and are often found in the juncture of the leaves and stem. They also suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and leaf drop.
Management: Dip a soft brush in rubbing alcohol and brush the affected parts of the plant thoroughly. The rubbing alcohol should kill the mealybugs. In severe infestations, you may need to use neem oil or insecticidal soap.
