Crassula ausensis subsp. titanopsis is a highly prized, miniature succulent native to the rocky quartzite crevices of southern Namibia. First collected in 1996 and described in 1998, this plant gets its subspecific name from its striking resemblance to the unrelated genus Titanopsis, thanks to its rough, warty leaf texture and compact growth habit.
Taxonomy of Crassula ausensis subsp. titanopsis
Scientific Name
Crassula ausensis subsp. titanopsis P. Pavelka
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Crassuloideae
Genus: Crassula
Etymology
The generic name "Crassula" (pronounced "KRASS-oo-la") means "somewhat thick" and refers to the thick, succulent leaves and stems characteristic of nearly every species in this genus.
The specific epithet "ausensis" (pronounced "ah-SEN-sis") means "of or from Aus" and refers to Aus🡕, a settlement in the ǁKaras Region of southern Namibia, where the species was first discovered at an elevation of 4,600 feet (1,400 m).
The subspecific epithet "titanopsis" (pronounced "ty-tan-OP-sis") means "Titanopsis-like" and refers to the plant's resemblance to plants in the genus Titanopsis.
Description
Crassula ausensis subsp. titanopsis is a small succulent that forms attractive clusters of small, stemless rosettes of green to grey-green leaves covered with transparent, tufted hairs. The dense clusters can reach up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. The leaves are ovate to obovate, measuring up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) long, 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) wide, and 0.3 inches (0.7 cm) thick. The leaf apex is more or less rusty orange to rusty red.
From late fall to early winter, small, white flowers appear in a thyrses with 1 to 3 dichasia on a stalk that can grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) tall.
Origin
Crassula ausensis subsp. titanopsis is native to southern Namibia.
How to Grow and Care for Crassula ausensis subsp. titanopsis
Light: Crassula ausensis subsp. titanopsis prefers full sun to partial shade. However, avoid intense afternoon sun during the hot summer days, as it can burn the leaves. If you're growing the plant indoors, place it in a window that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Soil: This plant isn't particular about soil pH, but it does require soil that is very porous and drains well. You can use commercial soil mix for succulents or create your own.
Temperature: This succulent tolerates average summer temperatures and short-term freezing, but extreme cold or heat can cause it to drop leaves and even die. Crassula ausensis subsp. titanopsis grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9b to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 25 to 50 °F (-3.9 to 10 °C).
Watering: Avoid overwatering using the "soak and dry" method to keep the plant healthy. Water deeply and then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Reduce watering in winter. The potted plants require more frequent watering than those in the ground.
Fertilizing: While Crassula ausensis subsp. titanopsis does not require high levels of nutrients, it will benefit from a small amount of organic fertilizer in mid-spring when it starts actively growing.
Repotting: Repot the plant as needed, preferably in spring, at the beginning of the growing season. Make sure the soil is dry before you begin repotting.
Propagation: Crassula ausensis subsp. titanopsis can be propagated by stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, and seeds. Stem cuttings are generally the easiest and most reliable method, while leaf propagation may be less successful. The best time to take cuttings is during active growth. Let the cut surfaces dry before planting in a well-draining soil mix. You can sow seeds in spring or autumn under suitable conditions.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Crassula.
Toxicity of Crassula ausensis subsp. titanopsis
Crassula ausensis subsp. titanopsis is considered non-toxic and is safe for growing around children and pets.
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Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Crassula.
- Explore all plants within the family Crassulaceae.