Crassula 'Dorothy'

Scientific Name

Crassula 'Dorothy'

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, fleshy, and succulent nature of the leaves and stems that are characteristic of nearly every species in the genus.

The cultivar epithet 'Dorothy' honors Dorothy Dunn, a Life Member of the Palomar Cactus & Succulent Society🡕 in San Diego, California, United States.

Origin of Crassula 'Dorothy'

Crassula 'Dorothy' is a hybrid that results from a cross between Crassula susannae and Crassula deceptor. It is probably a chance seedling that appeared at Cooper's Cactus and Succulents in Vista, California, United States.

Description of Crassula 'Dorothy'

Crassula 'Dorothy' is a beautiful miniature succulent that forms rosettes of knobbly, green leaves. Although it grows slowly, it gradually develops a dense cluster. The rosettes can grow up to 0.9 inches (2.2 cm) in diameter.

This hybrid is particularly floriferous. Each rosette produces a cluster of yellow flowers on slender stalks. The flowers usually bloom in the fall, sometimes in spring, and can reach up to 2.8 inches (7 cm) in length.

How to Grow and Care for Crassula 'Dorothy'

Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°C) to 50°F (10°C).

Crassulas are easy to grow but susceptible to mealybugs and fungal diseases. As with all succulents, overwatering is sure to be fatal, so err on the side of being too dry rather than too wet. Never let your plant sit in water. If you water from beneath by allowing the plant to sit in a saucer, pour off any excess water after a few minutes.

These succulents are generally started by division, offsets, or leaf cuttings. Crassulas can be easily propagated from a single leaf. Sprout leaves by placing them into a potting mix specifically designed for succulents, then cover the dish until they sprout.

Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot your Crassula, ensure the soil is dry, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, removing any rotted or dead roots. Treat any cuts with a fungicide. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill it with potting soil, spreading the roots as you repot. Leave the plant dry for a week or so, then begin to water lightly to reduce the risk of root rot.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Crassula.

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