Scientific Name
Crassula 'Pastel'
Common Name(s)
Variegated Tom Thumb
Synonym(s)
Crassula 'Tom Thumb Variegata'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Crassuloideae
Genus: Crassula
Description
Crassula 'Pastel' is a beautiful small succulent with tiny, triangular leaves in opposing ranks on erect, spreading, or decumbent stems. The stems grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) long, including inflorescences. The variegated leaves are up to 0.2 inches (5 mm) long and have colorful reddish edges, especially when grown in bright light.
The stems are topped by clusters of tiny white flowers in spring.
Origin
Crassula 'Pastel' is a Japanese variegated mutant of Crassula 'Tom Thumb'.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Crassulas are easy to grow but susceptible to mealy bugs and fungal diseases. Overwatering is sure to be fatal, as with all succulents, 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, ensure 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, 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 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.
Links
- Back to genus Crassula
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
