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Description
Crassula Arborescens is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly known as the Silver Dollar Plant, Chinese Jade, or Money Tree. The plant has a woody stem and can grow up to 3 meters in height. The leaves are thick, round, and gray-green in color, with a velvety texture on top and a white powdery surface underneath. The plant produces small, star-shaped, pink or white flowers that bloom in late winter and early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Crassula |
Appearance
The Crassula Arborescens has a unique and attractive appearance. The plant has a tree-like structure with a thick, woody stem and branches that grow upwards. The leaves are round, flat, and succulent, measuring about 3-4 cm in diameter. The leaves have a gray-green color and are covered with fine hairs. The upper surface of the leaves is velvety, while the lower surface is covered with a white powdery coating. The plant produces small, star-shaped flowers that are pink or white in color and bloom in late winter and early spring.
Care Guide
Water: The Crassula Arborescens prefers well-draining soil and should be watered only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause root rot and kill the plant.
Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength.
Soil: The plant needs well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A cactus or succulent mix works well for this plant.
Sunlight: The Crassula Arborescens prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sun, but too much can burn the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: The plant can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 9b-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Crassula Arborescens is generally a hardy plant and is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, overwatering can cause root rot, and mealybugs and spider mites can be a problem. To prevent these issues, make sure to water the plant only when the soil is completely dry and keep a lookout for any signs of infestation.
Habitat
The Crassula Arborescens is native to South Africa and is found in rocky, mountainous regions. The plant can tolerate drought and is well-adapted to dry, arid conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Crassula Arborescens toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested.
Q: How often should I water the Crassula Arborescens?
A: The plant should be watered only when the soil is completely dry.
Q: What should I do if my Crassula Arborescens is infested with mealybugs?
A: To get rid of mealybugs, you can wipe the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or use an insecticidal soap.
Q: Can the Crassula Arborescens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Related Plants
- Crassula Ovata (Jade Plant)
- Crassula Perforata (String of Buttons)
- Crassula Gollum (Gollum Jade)
References
- “Crassula Arborescens.” World of Succulents, Accessed 23 June 2021, www.worldofsucculents.com/crassula-arborescens-silver-dollar-plant/.
- “Crassula Arborescens.” The Spruce, Accessed 23 June 2021, www.thespruce.com/silver-dollar-plant-profile-4841927.
