Dainty Crassula
Dainty Crassula (Crassula elegans) is a fun and simple succulent houseplant from the family of Crassulaceae. It is a deciduous, evergreen perennial with a trailing, glossy, fleshy, lime green foliage, forming attractive shrublets. Dainty Crassula has a sparsely branched, woody stem and comes in a variety of leaf shapes, from round to linear. The small pink-white flowers of Dainty Crassula are star-shaped, attract pollinators, and are delightful. These easily grown succulents are great for dish gardens, containers, window sills, or even hanging baskets.
It is important not to over water its succulent foliage. During the summer and growing season, water deeply when the top layer of soil is almost dry to the touch. Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering, and reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant. Make sure to only water the soil and not the leaves to avoid any rot forming.
Dainty Crassula likes bright, filtered light but can also tolerate partial shade. If the plant is placed in too much direct sunlight, it will lose its color and become sunburned. Therefore, it is important to place the plant in the ideal spot where it will receive the most light while avoiding over-exposure.
Dainty Crassula prefers warmer temperatures within the range of 68°F to 80°F (20°C - 27°C). Plant can survive temperature of 50°F (10°C) but any cooler than that might cause the plant to suffer. Do not keep the plant near heater vents or cold drafts as this might cause the plant to suffer.
Dainty Crassula prefers average household humidity between 40-50%. As succulents, they do not really like extreme humid conditions. Too much humidity will lead to root rot and other issues. Keep away from bathrooms and even away from kitchens as cooking activities create a lot of humidity.
Dainty Crassula enjoys a well draining soil mix which should include a combination of peat moss with either sand, perlite, vermiculite, or a combination of all three. Alternatively, a succulent or cacti potting mix can also be used for better drainage. It is important for the soil to be slightly acidic and contain a pH level of 6.0-7.0.
Fertilize a Dainty Crassula only during the growing season when the plant is actively growing. Use an all-purpose, balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every other month. Avoid over fertilization as it might cause stunted growth and cause the foliage to discolor.
Dainty Crassula is generally considered a pest free plant, however it is still a good idea to watch out for pesky little critters such as aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, scale insects, whiteflies, and thrips. To get rid of these insects, first try a strong spray of water before using any insecticidal soap or natural pesticide. If that does not work, try an insecticidal soap, neem oil, or even using horticultural oils on the entire plant, following all directions given on the product’s label.
It is recommended to repot Dainty Crassula every two to three years during the early spring season when the plant is still growing. When repotting, make sure to use either an all-purpose succulent soil mix, or one that has good drainage mixed with other organic matter. Additionally, make sure to choose a pot with plenty of drainage and a saucer to collect any excess water.
Light pruning can be done throughout the year as needed to keep the plant's shape. Generally though, it is best to wait until after the growing season to prune. To prune the plant, simply use clean, sharp scissors or a knife to cut off any dead or damaged foliage.
Mulching is not recommended since the plant prefers dryer conditions. If mulching is necessary, choose an airy, coarse inorganic material, such as gravel, so that water will not become trapped around the plant’s root zone.
Dainty Crassula can be propagated in a few ways. The easiest method is to take stem cuttings and insert them in a moistened soil mixture of equal parts of peat and perlite. Make sure to water every week, as well as keeping the soil moist but not saturated. It can also be propagated from leaves by placing the leaves on a soil medium and keeping them lightly covered with a plastic bag to help retain moisture.
Dainty Crassula typically doesn’t need any support from a stake or trellis. On the other hand, if the soil is kept too dry and the plant has been left for too long without water, it might need support to stay upright.
Dainty Crassula does not have an active winter growth period since it is a succulent plant. During the winter, the plant should be given small amounts of water (about once a month), as well as less light and colder temperatures than the growing season.
Dainty Crassula is non-toxic to most pets, except for cats and dogs who might get a bit sick if they eat it.
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