Crassula rubricaulis is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to the Cape Province of South Africa and is commonly known as the Red Stemmed Crassula. This plant is a great addition to any garden or indoor plant collection due to its unique appearance and easy care.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Crassula |
Appearance
The Crassula rubricaulis has bright green leaves that are triangular and succulent. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern and are around 2-3 cm long. The most striking feature of this plant is its red stems, which are thin and woody. The stems grow upwards and can reach up to 30 cm in height. During the summer months, the plant produces small white flowers that are star-shaped and grow in clusters.
Care Guide
Crassula rubricaulis is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months. Make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a succulent fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for succulents.
- Sunlight: Crassula rubricaulis prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crassula rubricaulis is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Mealybugs: These small white insects can infest the plant and suck the sap from the leaves. Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot. Make sure the soil is well-draining and reduce watering in the winter months.
- Leaf drop: This can be caused by overwatering or underwatering the plant. Make sure the soil is well-draining and adjust watering accordingly.
Habitat
Crassula rubricaulis is native to the Cape Province of South Africa. It grows in rocky areas and is adapted to dry conditions. In its natural habitat, it is often found growing alongside other succulent plants such as Aloe and Echeveria.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Crassula rubricaulis toxic to pets?
A: Crassula rubricaulis is not toxic to pets.
Q: Can Crassula rubricaulis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Crassula rubricaulis can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Crassula rubricaulis?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a succulent fertilizer.
Q: What is the best soil mix for Crassula rubricaulis?
A: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for succulents.
Related Plants
- Crassula ovata
- Crassula muscosa
- Crassula tetragona
- Crassula perforata
References
- “Crassula Rubricaulis.” World of Succulents, World of Succulents, 2021, worldofsucculents.com/crassula-rubricaulis-red-stemmed-crassula.
- “Crassula Rubricaulis.” Mountain Crest Gardens, Mountain Crest Gardens, 2021, mountaincrestgardens.com/crassula-rubricaulis.
- “Crassula Rubricaulis.” The Spruce, The Spruce, 2021, thespruce.com/crassula-rubricaulis-care-4842536.
