Synonyms:

No synonyms are recorded for this species name.

Habitat:

Crassula marnieriana ‘Fantasy’ is a nursery cultivar, thus it doesn’t exist in nature.

Description:

Crassula marnieriana, commonly known as the Jade Necklace, is a petite succulent that exhibits a distinctive feature in its stem structure. The leaves, which are not easily distinguishable from the stems, give rise to a charming appearance akin to dainty necklaces. These leaves are plump and rounded, fitting snugly against the stems, creating a scale-like effect, and are primarily green with striking hints of deep red. When mature, the stems tend to lie slightly prostrate, whereas in their early stages, they stand erect. They typically reach a maximum height of 15-20 centimeters.
Despite its small size, the flowers of this succulent are remarkably diminutive and inconspicuous. This unique combination of characteristics makes the Crassula marnieriana an intriguing and visually captivating addition to any succulent collection. Its common name, “Jade Necklace,” perfectly encapsulates the charming and distinctive aesthetic that sets this succulent apart.
The cultivar ‘Fantasy’ shares all this features with the original Crassula marneriana, except from the colour: it is similar, in fact, to a variegated cultivar, due to its pale yellow, abundant tinges all over the leaves. The paler colour gives to this cultivar an elegant touch, and it’s thus popular among who is seeking for a cool plat to adorn the shelves of its office or living room. This elegance is enhanced also by the reddish shades present in the joints between the leaves layers.

Cultivation:

Growing and nurturing Crassula marnieriana ‘Fantasy’, also known as the fantasy crassula, can present an enjoyable challenge. With proper care, it transforms into a stunning sight, as its leaves gracefully curve inward, resembling a unique, textured spectacle. These delightful plants are often cultivated in small bonsai pots.
They possess a lively growth rate, making them a dynamic addition to any collection. To flourish, they require a well-drained mineral soil, and their pots should be relatively shallow to accommodate their fibrous roots while ensuring optimal drainage.
When it comes to lighting, they shy away from direct sunlight during the summer, as excessive exposure can lead to leaf scorching. However, they do require some sun exposure during the day to thrive. If placed in deep shade, their vitality diminishes, eventually leading to deterioration. When grown indoors, aim for around six hours of sunlight daily.
In terms of watering, moderation is key. From autumn to spring, they prefer their soil to be neither overly saturated nor completely dry. In the summer, a more frequent watering schedule is necessary, but be cautious during winter. Insufficient water can cause them to shrivel, while excessive moisture may cause the rosette to open up, resembling a fluffy cabbage.
In terms of nourishment, a gentle fertilizer can promote growth, particularly when combined with additional watering. During the growing season, use a fertilizer specifically formulated for cacti and succulents, ensuring it contains all essential micro nutrients and trace elements. Dilute it to half the recommended strength mentioned on the label. These plants thrive in modest soil conditions and only require limited fertilization to prevent excessive growth, which can make them prone to fungal diseases. Adequate ventilation is crucial for their well-being. Most issues arise from overwatering and poor air circulation, particularly in dim, chilly, or excessively humid conditions.
Regarding pests and diseases, they are generally hardy, with occasional encounters with mealybugs. To protect them from harm, ensure they are shielded from frost. For those fortunate enough to reside in frost-free regions, these crassulas can thrive outdoors. For others, they make excellent indoor companions in all other zones.

Propagation:

Propagation of Crassula marnieriana ‘Fantasy’, also known as the variegated necklace vine, can be accomplished through two primary methods: seeds and offsets. When starting from seeds, it is advisable to sow them in the autumn season, as this provides the most favorable conditions for germination. The process entails placing the seeds in a well-prepared substrate and ensuring they receive sufficient light and moisture. Offsets, another effective propagation technique, involve separating young shoots or offsets from the parent plant. These juvenile shoots are then carefully nestled in clean river sand. Regular misting, ideally every three to four days, creates a humid environment conducive to root development. With attentive care, roots should start to emerge within a period of two to three weeks. This deliberate and nurturing approach to propagation ensures the successful reproduction of these enchanting succulents, guaranteeing a new generation of variegated necklace vines can prosper and flourish.

Curiosity:

The genus name “Crassula” is derived from the Latin word “crassus,” meaning thick or fat. It refers to the succulent nature of plants in this genus, which typically have thick leaves or stems adapted for water storage. This species is also referred at as “Necklace” Crassula, for the elongated form of its stems and leaves.

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