Scientific Name
Ruschia crassa Schwantes
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum crassum
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Ruschia
Description
Ruschia crassa is a succulent shrub with robust, bluish-green, ascending branches. It is one of the species with highly reduced leaves and uses its stems to fulfill the purpose of the leaves.
The white flowers appear from spring to fall, solitary or in clusters of up to 3. They can reach up to 0.9 inches (2.2 cm) in diameter. The fruits are five-locular capsules.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Ruschias are popular as garden plants. Their drought tolerance makes them ideal water-wise plants in the arid and semi-arid parts of the world. Brilliant seasonal color displays can be achieved by mass planting in large areas and using many different growth forms.
There are tufted, round-shaped plants well suited for containers and flower boxes. The low-growing and spreading species cover well and will do wonders to terrace embankments and easily stabilize loose sand. Then, the bigger, more robust types are best used among larger plants or in combination with other succulents in rock gardens and mixed beds.
Remember that Ruschias are short-lived plants, and it is essential to continue replanting every three years. All species attract a host of insects, thus ideal subjects to attract wildlife to the garden throughout the year.
Once rooted or germinated, cuttings and seedlings can be fed with organic fertilizers to enhance vigor and health.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Ruschia.
Origin
Ruschia crassa is native to South Africa (Western Cape).
Links
- Back to genus Ruschia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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