Enciclopedia Saxifragales Crassulaceae Crassuloideae Crassula

Crassulaceae

Crassula

Jade Plant

Regno	Plantae
Sottoregno	Tracheobionta
Superdivisione	Spermatophyta
Divisione	Magnoliophyta
Classe	Magnoliopsida
Ordine	Saxifragales
Famiglia	Crassulaceae
Sottofamiglia	Crassuloideae
Genere	Crassula

Luce

Medium high

Acqua

Low

Specie

Crassula is a diverse genus of succulent plants renowned for their fleshy leaves and architectural forms. The genus includes around 200 species, ranging from small creeping varieties to upright shrubs. Crassula plants are prized for their drought tolerance and are popular as low-maintenance houseplants and landscape succulents.

Habitat naturale

Crassula species originate primarily from South Africa, particularly the Eastern Cape, with some species from other arid regions of Africa and Madagascar. They thrive in rocky, well-drained soils with full sun exposure and minimal water.

Storia e cultura

Crassula ovata, the Jade Plant, has long been associated with prosperity and good fortune in Feng Shui. The plant's tree-like growth symbolizes wealth and growth. It's commonly given as a housewarming gift in many cultures.

Utilizzi

Crassula plants are grown worldwide for their ornamental value, drought tolerance, and ease of propagation. They're perfect for rock gardens, succulent arrangements, terrariums, and as dramatic architectural houseplants.

Conservazione

While cultivated varieties are common, many wild Crassula species face habitat loss threats in South Africa. Some rarer species are collected from the wild, impacting natural populations.

Specie e varietà (5)

Crassula capitella

1 cultivar

Crassula lactea

Crassula marnieriana

Crassula ovata

5 cultivar

Crassula sarmentosa

1 cultivar

Guida alla cura

Luce

Bright light is essential. Most Crassula thrive in full sun or bright indirect light. Insufficient light causes etiolation and weak growth.

Acqua

Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Succulent leaves store water; overwatering causes root rot. Water sparingly in winter.

Substrato

Use gritty, well-draining succulent/cactus mix. Commercial succulent soil works well, or create your own with 50% potting soil, 50% perlite/pumice.

Temperatura e umidità

Ideal range 65°F-75°F (18°C-24°C). Can tolerate down to 50°F (10°C). Prefers dry air; avoid high humidity except during propagation.

Concimazione

Fertilize monthly during spring/summer with diluted succulent fertilizer (1/4 strength). Skip in fall/winter when plants are dormant.

Potatura

Prune leggy growth in spring to maintain shape. Remove dead leaves promptly. Repot every 2-3 years in spring.

Propagazione

Talea

Easiest method for most Crassula. Single leaves root readily.

Select healthy, plump leaves and twist gently from stem.

Let callus 1-2 days, then place on well-draining soil.

Mist lightly; roots and plantlets form in 2-4 weeks.

Transplant once rooted.

Domande frequenti

Why are my Crassula leaves shriveling?

Shriveling indicates underwatering or too much sun without water. Check soil dryness and provide bright indirect light during establishment.

Why is my Jade Plant dropping leaves?

Sudden leaf drop usually means overwatering or cold temperatures. Let soil dry completely and maintain temperatures above 55°F.

How do I make my Crassula branch more?

Pinch or cut tip growth to encourage branching. Healthy, bright light also promotes compact bushy growth.

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