Scientific Name
Crassula 'Moonglow'
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 'Moonglow' refers to the plant's soft, gray-green coloration, reminiscent of moonlight's gentle glow.
Description
Crassula 'Moonglow' is a beautiful succulent with gray-green leaves tightly packed in overlapping pairs along short stems that form upright columns. It can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall and branches well, creating a compact cluster of columns over time. The leaves are thick, fleshy, and densely covered with fine velvet.
Small apricot flowers appear after several years in clusters on a branched terminal stalk in late winter and spring.
Origin
Crassula 'Moonglow' is one of the earliest Crassula crossings introduced by Johnson Cactus Gardens in 1958. It results from a cross between Crassula deceptor and Crassula perfoliata var. minor (formerly known as Crassula falcata).
Hybrids of Crassula 'Moonglow'
How to Grow and Care for Crassula 'Moonglow'
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 fatal, so err on the side of too dry rather than too wet. Never let your plant sit in water. If you water from below by letting the plant sit in a saucer, make sure to pour off any excess water after a few minutes.
You can generally start these succulents by division, offsets, or leaf cuttings. Crassulas can be easily propagated from a single leaf. To sprout leaves, place them in a potting mix 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.
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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