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Description
Crassula Mataikona, also known as the ‘Ripple Jade’, is a succulent that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. This plant is native to South Africa and is a popular houseplant due to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. Crassula Mataikona has thick, pale-green, triangular leaves that are slightly curved and have a rippled or wavy texture. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern and can reach up to 3 inches in length. This plant can grow up to 6 inches tall and 8 inches wide. Crassula Mataikona produces small, star-shaped, white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Crassula |
Appearance
Crassula Mataikona is a unique succulent that has a distinctive appearance. The plant has thick, pale-green, triangular leaves that are slightly curved and have a rippled or wavy texture. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern and can reach up to 3 inches in length. The edges of the leaves are slightly toothed, and the tips of the leaves are pointed. The plant can grow up to 6 inches tall and 8 inches wide. The flowers of Crassula Mataikona are small, star-shaped, and can be white or pink in color. The flowers bloom in the summer and add a beautiful touch to the plant’s appearance.
Care Guide
Crassula Mataikona is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here is a detailed guide on how to care for this succulent:
Water: Crassula Mataikona requires infrequent watering. Water the plant when the soil is completely dry. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Soil: Use well-draining soil for Crassula Mataikona. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal for this plant.
Sunlight: Place Crassula Mataikona in bright, indirect sunlight. The plant can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Crassula Mataikona can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crassula Mataikona is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common problems that can affect this plant:
Pests: Mealybugs and spider mites are common pests that can affect Crassula Mataikona. Use insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution to control these pests.
Diseases: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. Avoid overwatering and make sure the soil is well-draining. Fungal infections can also occur, which can cause black spots or lesions on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Crassula Mataikona is native to South Africa and is found growing in rocky areas and on cliffs. The plant is adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate periods of drought. Crassula Mataikona is a popular houseplant due to its low maintenance requirements and unique appearance.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Crassula Mataikona be grown outdoors in cooler climates?
A: Crassula Mataikona is not cold hardy and cannot tolerate frost. It should be grown indoors or in a greenhouse in cooler climates.Q: How often should I fertilize Crassula Mataikona?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the dormant season (fall and winter).Q: How do I propagate Crassula Mataikona?
A: Crassula Mataikona can be propagated by stem or leaf cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil.Q: How often should I water Crassula Mataikona?
A: Water the plant when the soil is completely dry. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Crassula Mataikona:
- Crassula Ovata (Jade Plant)
- Crassula Arborescens (Silver Dollar Plant)
- Crassula Tetragona (Miniature Pine Tree)
- Crassula Muscosa (Watch Chain Plant)
References
- “Crassula Mataikona.” World of Succulents. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/crassula-mataikona-ripple-jade/.
- “Crassula Mataikona.” The Spruce. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/crassula-mataikona-profile-4846808.
- “Crassula Mataikona.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/crassula/crassula-mataikona.htm.
