Scientific Name
Crassula peploides Harv.
Synonym(s)
Crassula galpinii
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Crassuloideae
Genus: Crassula
Origin
Crassula peploides is native to Lesotho and South Africa.
Description
Crassula peploides is a low-growing succulent that spreads to form a mat. It can grow up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) tall. The leaves are arranged in small rosettes at branch tips. They are narrow, almost cylindrical or barrel-shaped, but flat on the inside surfaces and slightly curving. The leaves taper to somewhat rounded or pointed tips. Depending on growing conditions, the leaf surface is rough, sometimes with red mottling and overall reddish or blue-green coloring. The trailing stems are pale red.
The plant produces attractive white and pink flowers in summer and fall.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 5a to 10b: from −20 °F (−28.9 °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. Overwatering is sure to be fatal, as with all succulents, 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 letting the plant sit in a saucer, 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 covering 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.
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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