Scientific Name
Crassula lactea Aiton
Common Name(s)
Taylor's Parches, Tailor's Patch, Knysna Crassula
Synonym(s)
Toelkenia lactea
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Crassuloideae
Genus: Crassula
Description
Crassula lactea is a small succulent with decumbent to erect stems that bear mid-green leaves with a tapering tip and a broad base that clasps the stem. It can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and 2 feet (60 cm) wide. The younger leaves are marked along the margins of the upper surface by small, white, evenly-spaced dots.
In winter, the plant produces pyramidal clusters of white, star-shaped flowers on stalks that can reach up to 4 inches (10 cm) in length. The flowers last several weeks on the plant.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 8a to 10b: from 10 °F (−12.2 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Crassulas are easy to grow but susceptible to mealy bugs and fungal diseases. As with all succulents, overwatering is sure to be fatal, so err on the side of too dry rather than too wet. Never let your plant sit in water. If you water from beneath by letting the plant sit in a saucer of water, ensure that you 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 before repotting, 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.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Crassula.
Origin
Crassula lactea is native to South Africa (Eastern Cape, Western Cape).
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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