Crassula dichotoma is a highly variable species. The plant size, the color of the leaves, and the number and color of the flowers can vary significantly based on environmental conditions. Considerable variation is often observed even within a single population.
Scientific Name
Crassula dichotoma L.
Synonym(s)
Vauanthes dichotoma
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Crassuloideae
Genus: Crassula
Etymology
The specific epithet "dichotoma" (pronounced "dy-KAW-toh-muh") means "dichotomous (dividing or branching into two pieces), bipartite" and refers to the branching habit of this species.
Origin
Crassula dichotoma is native to South Africa, specifically in the Northern Cape and Western Cape provinces.
Description
Crassula dichotoma is an annual succulent with an erect, wiry, typically sparsely branched stem that bears slightly fleshy leaves. It can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall. The leaves are inversely ovate to linear and occasionally lance-shaped, with tips and bases that can be either pointed or rounded. They can measure up to 0.7 inches (1.8 cm) long and 0.4 inches (1 cm) wide. The coloration of the leaves varies from green to brownish-green, with reddish-brown spots along the margins.
In spring, Crassula dichotoma produces funnel-shaped flowers that range from pure yellow, often have a deeper hue around the throat and the tube, to orange with a yellow tube. The flowers appear in a loose, terminal cluster.
Crassula dichotoma has an annual growth cycle, meaning it grows, flowers, produces seeds, and dies within a single season. However, it self-propagates by scattering seeds that develop into new plants.
This species is found along the coast, from Namaqualand and the escarpment in the Northern Cape to the Cape Peninsula and Cape Agulhas in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It typically grows in sandy soil in open areas among bushes.
Although the population is decreasing due to development, farming, and invasive alien plants, Crassula dichotoma is not considered threatened in its natural habitat as of the early twenty-first century.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Crassula.
Toxicity of Crassula dichotoma
Crassula dichotoma is non-toxic and considered safe for people and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Crassula
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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