Crassula alpestris is a short-lived dwarf perennial succulent that forms a dense clump of stems 6 inches (15 cm) mm high and spreading to a similar size. The numerous succulent stems branch only from the base of the plant and are fed by a short taproot with a dense mesh of wiry adventitious roots. The succulent leaves are triangular, 10 mm wide at the base, 5-8 mm long and taper to a sharp point, and tightly clasp the stem and the leaves above. The flowers are white, sometimes tinged with pink or red, and clustered into a dense thyrse ( a branched inflorescence in which the main axis continues to grow but the growth of the side branches is terminated by a bud or flower) always at the tips of only the most mature stems. Each flower is tubular with petals fused at the base and flaring at the mouth. Flowers are fragrant in the evening.
How to Grow and Care
Crassula is a simply magnificent succulent plant family that is perfectly suited to growing indoors. Care, from repotting to pruning and watering, is easy.
Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot your Crassula, make sure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, making sure to remove any rotted or dead roots in the process. Treat any cuts with a fungicide. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill with potting soil, spreading the roots out as you repot. Leave the plant dry for a week or so, then begin to water lightly to reduce the risk of root rot.
Origin: Crassula alpestris is native to South Africa.
Hardiness:
Hardiness USDA zone 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
Soil: Crassula plants need very well draining soil, but they are not particular about soil pH. Sandy or even rocky soil is fine.
Water: As succulents, they don't need frequent watering, since they store it in their leaves. If they are left to sit in wet soil, their roots will rot. During cooler months, give them a good drenching and then allow the soil to dry out, before watering again. Crassula plants go dormant when the temperature gets hot in summer and need even less water.
Feeding: Feed sparingly. You can give your plants a little organic fertilizer in mid-spring, as they start actively growing.
- ALSO READ some more info HOW TO GROW AND CARE FOR CRASSULA
- Scientific Name: Crassula alpestris L.f.
- Common names: None found.
- Synonyms: Crassula alpestris subsp. alpestris, Purgosea alpestris
- Family: Crassulaceae
- Subfamily: Crassuloideae
- Genus: Crassula
 | |
|
How to Grow and Care
Crassula is a simply magnificent succulent plant family that is perfectly suited to growing indoors. Care, from repotting to pruning and watering, is easy.
Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot your Crassula, make sure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, making sure to remove any rotted or dead roots in the process. Treat any cuts with a fungicide. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill with potting soil, spreading the roots out as you repot. Leave the plant dry for a week or so, then begin to water lightly to reduce the risk of root rot.
Origin: Crassula alpestris is native to South Africa.
Hardiness:
Hardiness USDA zone 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
Soil: Crassula plants need very well draining soil, but they are not particular about soil pH. Sandy or even rocky soil is fine.
Water: As succulents, they don't need frequent watering, since they store it in their leaves. If they are left to sit in wet soil, their roots will rot. During cooler months, give them a good drenching and then allow the soil to dry out, before watering again. Crassula plants go dormant when the temperature gets hot in summer and need even less water.
Feeding: Feed sparingly. You can give your plants a little organic fertilizer in mid-spring, as they start actively growing.
- ALSO READ some more info HOW TO GROW AND CARE FOR CRASSULA
 |
| source pic: flickr.com riversongflowers.blogspot.com |
