Crassula orbicularis var. rosularis

Scientific Name

Crassula orbicularis var. rosularis (Haw.) G.D.Rowley

Synonym(s)

Crassula rosularis, Sedum rosulare

Scientific Classification

Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Crassuloideae
Genus: Crassula

Etymology

The varietal epithet "rosularis" (pronounced "roh-SOO-lar-iss") means "rosette-forming; resembling a small rose" and refers to the arrangement of the leaves of this plant, which resemble a small rose.

Origin

Crassula orbicularis var. rosularis is native to South Africa. It is not accepted as a separate variety and is treated as a synonym of Crassula orbicularis.

Description

Crassula orbicularis var. rosularis is a clumping succulent with flat green leaves, purple on the lower face, with ciliate margins and an acute tip.

The terminal ascending inflorescence can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall. The whole plant becomes more purple when stressed in full sun or cool temperatures.

How to Grow and Care for Crassula orbicularis var. rosularis

Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).

Crassulas are easy to grow, but they are susceptible to mealybugs 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 Crassula sit in water. If you water from beneath by letting the plant sit in a saucer of water, make sure to pour off any excess water after a few minutes.

Crassulas are generally started by division, offsets, or leaf cuttings. Plants can be easily propagated from a single leaf: sprout leaves by placing them into a succulent or cacti mix, then covering the dish until they sprout.

Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot a succulent, make sure the soil is dry, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, making sure to remove any rotted or dead roots in the process. Treat any cuts with a fungicide. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill with potting soil, spreading the roots out 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.