Synonyms:

Cotyledon lutea
Cotyledon ovata
Crassula argentea
Crassula articulata
Crassula nitida
Crassula obliqua
Toelkenia ovata

Habitat:

In its natural habitat, Crassula ovata grows in dry, rocky areas with minimal water availability. The plant is adapted to arid environments, thriving under full sun exposure and well-drained soil conditions. It’s tolerant of poor soils and can often be found growing in cracks and crevices where other plants might struggle to survive.

Description:

Crassula ovata hybrid is a perennial succulent belonging to the Crassulaceae botanical family. This plant can grow up to 90-180 cm tall, although it remains smaller when grown indoors. The leaves are thick, shiny, and spoon-shaped, resembling jade stones, hence the common name. The leaves are bright green with reddish hues on the top. The leaves store water, allowing the plant to survive long periods of drought. During the spring, it may produce small, star-shaped white or pale pink flowers.

Cultivation:

This is a slow growing plant, easy to cultivate. The plant needs a full sunlight exposure but is recommended to avoid direct sun-light during the hottest periods. The plant is sensitive to temperatures below 7°C, so it should be moved indoors in colder weather. The soil should consist of a mix of pumice, clay, and loam to ensure proper drainage and prevent root rot, to which the plant is susceptible. To facilitate excess water drainage, it is recommended to use a perforated pot. Watering plays a crucial role in the well-being of this species. During the vegetative period, it is recommended to water the plant every 7 days, ensuring that the soil is completely dry before the next watering. In winter, watering should be suspended to allow the plant to enter dormancy. Regarding fertilization, a moderate application of specific succulent fertilizers during the growing season is sufficient. Fertilization should be discontinued in winter. You should repot the plant every 2 years in a pot 2 cm wider. Repotting should be done early in the growing season using fresh potting soil. It is essential to be vigilant for red spiders and mealybugs, as these pests can pose a threat to the plant’s health. Regular checks and prompt intervention are advisable to keep these potential issues under control.

Propagation:

Propagation can be done by cutting or by seed. When using cuttings, make the cut during the spring and then let it to dry for a few days; after the cut surface has dried and a formed a callus, place the cutting in a mixture of sand, soil and pumice. To increase the success of propagation you can make two or more cuttings at the same time. For cuttings it is recommended to maintain temperatures around 20 °C. Propagating the plant by seed is very simple; it is enough to sow the seed in a sandy loam soil and keep it at a high level of humidity with a temperature of 14 C°.

Curiosity:

From its name you could say that it is the “succulent plant” par excellence: its name comes from the Latin crassus, that means fat. The crassula is a plant unpretentious but with a high vegetative strength: for this reason, it is sometimes used in a closed area for air purification, which is filtered by eliminating harmful substances. In some cultures, Crassula ovata is considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity, often given as a gift during housewarmings.

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