Contents
Description
Crassula Lactea, also known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’, is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It is a part of the Crassulaceae family and is a popular plant for its unique appearance and ease of care. The leaves are tubular and grow in a spiral shape, with a green color and red tips. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great addition to any indoor or outdoor garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Crassula |
Appearance
The Crassula Lactea has unique tubular leaves that are green with red tips. The leaves grow in a spiral shape and can reach up to 3 inches long. The plant itself can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It produces small white flowers in the summer months that are star-shaped and have a sweet scent.
Care Guide
The Crassula Lactea is an easy plant to care for and is great for beginners. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant once a week, making sure the soil is completely dry before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with sand or perlite mixed in.
- Sunlight: The Crassula Lactea prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but too much can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Crassula Lactea is generally a healthy plant, but it can fall victim to a few pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:
- Mealybugs: These pests look like small cotton balls and can be found on the leaves or stems. They can be treated with insecticidal soap.
- Scale: These pests look like small brown or black bumps and can be found on the leaves or stems. They can be treated with insecticidal soap.
- Rust: This disease causes orange or brown spots on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.
- Mushy Stem: Overwatering can lead to a mushy stem, which can be fatal for the plant. Make sure to let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
Habitat
The Crassula Lactea is native to South Africa and can be found in dry, rocky areas. It is a hardy plant that can survive in hot and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Crassula Lactea be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Q: Can the plant be kept indoors?
A: Yes, the Crassula Lactea is a great indoor plant.
Q: How often should the plant be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the ideal temperature for the plant?
A: The plant prefers temperatures between 60-75°F.
Related Plants
- Crassula Ovata
- Crassula Arborescens
- Crassula Tetragona
- Crassula Perforata
References
- “Crassula ovata ‘Gollum'”, Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e127
- “Crassula ovata ‘Gollum'”, Gardening Know How, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/crassula/crassula-gollum.htm
- “Crassula ovata ‘Gollum'”, Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/17913/Crassula-ovata-Gollum/Details
