Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis 'Petite Bicolor' is a low-growing succulent that forms a mat and grows well in hanging baskets. It is commonly sold as Crassula 'Petite Bicolor' and often incorrectly labeled as Sedum 'Little Missy'.
Scientific Name
Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis 'Petite Bicolor'
Synonym(s)
Crassula 'Petite Bicolor'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Crassuloideae
Genus: Crassula
Origin
Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis 'Petite Bicolor' is a particularly dwarf variegated form of Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis.
Description
Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis 'Petite Bicolor', usually called Crassula 'Petite Bicolor', is a mat-forming succulent with slender, trailing stems that bear tiny, heart-shaped leaves. The stems can grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length. The leaves are grey-green with cream to pale green margins, often tinged with pink or red when exposed to bright sunlight.
During the summer, Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis 'Petite Bicolor' produces tiny white or pink flowers, each with five petals and five stamens. The flowers appear in terminal clusters.
It's important to note that those who mistakenly refer to this plant as Sedum 'Little Missy' have likely not examined its flowers closely. Crassula flowers typically have equal petals and stamens, generally five of each. On the other hand, Sedum flowers have twice as many stamens as petals, usually having ten stamens and five petals.
How to Grow and Care for Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis 'Petite Bicolor'
Light: Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis 'Petite Bicolor' prefers full sun to partial shade. However, avoid intense afternoon sun during the hot summer days, as it can burn the leaves. If you are growing this plant Indoors, place it in a window with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Soil: This plant is not particular about soil pH, but it does require soil that is very porous and has excellent drainage. You can use commercial soil mix for succulents or create your own.
Temperature: While this succulent can tolerate average summer temperatures and short-term freezing, extreme cold or heat can cause it to lose leaves and even die. Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis 'Petite Bicolor' grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9b to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 25°F to 50°F (-3.9°C to 10°C).
Watering: Avoid overwatering using the "soak and dry" method to keep the plant healthy. Water deeply, then let the soil completely dry out before watering again. Reduce watering in winter. Potted plants require more frequent watering than those in the ground.
Fertilizing: While Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis 'Petite Bicolor' does not require high levels of nutrients, it will benefit from a small amount of organic fertilizer in mid-spring when it starts actively growing.
Repotting: Repot the plant as needed, preferably in spring, at the beginning of the growing season. Make sure the soil is dry before beginning to repot.
Propagation: This plant is usually propagated by stem cuttings, but can also be grown from leaves and seeds. The best time to propagate by cuttings is at the beginning of the growing season, while the ideal time to sow the seeds is during spring and summer.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Crassula.
Toxicity of Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis 'Petite Bicolor'
Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis 'Petite Bicolor' is considered non-toxic and is safe for growing around children and pets.
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.
