Scientific Name
Crassula 'Imperialis' (informal name)
Accepted Scientific Name
Common Name(s)
Giant Watch Chain
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 this genus.
The cultivar epithet 'Imperialis' means "Imperial; of the empire or emperor" and likely refers to the plant's more robust, thicker, and more imposing growth compared with the typical form of Crassula muscosa, giving it an imperial or majestic appearance.
Description
Crassula 'Imperialis' is a small, densely branched succulent with tiny, light green to grey-green or brownish-green leaves densely packed around branching, erect to decumbent stems. It forms a square mass similar to Crassula muscosa but thicker. The stems can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) long.
The flowers are tiny, ranging from pale yellowish-green to brown, and appear in summer and fall.
Origin
Crassula 'Imperialis' is likely a thicker form of Crassula muscosa rather than a hybrid, as some believe.
How to Grow and Care for Crassula 'Imperialis'
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 9a to 10b: from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 40°F (4.4°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 of water, be sure to 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 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 plant from its pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, and remove 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.
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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