Care of the succulent plant Crassula arta or Crassula deceptor |
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The genus Crassula, family Crassulaceae, includes 600 species of succulent plants native to southern Africa. Some species are: Crassula arta, Crassula ovata, Crassula tetragona, Crassula perforata, Crassula muscosa, Crassula multicava, Crassula marnierana, Crassula falcata, Crassula capitella, Crassula Buddha's Temple (cultivar), Crassula arborescens, Crassula lactea, Crassula radicans, Crassula corymbulosa, Crassula Coralita, Crassula picturata. Scientific synonym: Crassula deceptor. This species is native to Nothern Cape (South Africa) and Namibia. They are small succulent plants branched from the base that reach 15 cm (5.9") in height; stems may be erect or prostrate. Curious rounded bluish-gray green leaves encircle the stem and feature spherical papillae. Star-shaped, fragrant pink flowers appear on flower stalks above the leaves. They bloom in winter and in other seasons of the year. Due to their small size they are used in pots on windowsills, balconies, patios and terraces. Crassula arta needs full sun exposure and a hot, dry climate. They do not resist temperatures below 5 ºC (41 ºF). The soil must be very well drained; use a commercial substrate for cacti with 20% coarse sand. Always water moderately, waiting for the substrate to dry completely. Reduce watering in fall and no watering in winter. They do not need fertilizers or pruning. They do not present serious pest and disease problems if there is no excess irrigation. They are propagated by leaf or stem cuttings rooted in a slightly moist sandy substrate. |
Images of the succulent plant Crassula arta or Crassula deceptor |
 Crassula arta |