Crassula Moschata

Description

Crassula Moschata, commonly known as the “Musk” or “Musk-Scented Stonecrop,” is a small succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. This species is native to South Africa and is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens or as a houseplant due to its unique characteristics. The plant is characterized by its small, fleshy, and round leaves that grow in a rosette formation, which can range from a pale green to a silvery-blue color. The leaves are covered in small hairs that give off a distinctive musky scent when rubbed.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Crassula Moschata is a small succulent that usually grows up to 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide. The plant has small, round, and fleshy leaves that grow in a rosette formation. The leaves are covered in small hairs that give off a musky scent when rubbed. The color of the leaves can range from a pale green to a silvery-blue color, depending on the amount of sunlight the plant receives. When the plant blooms, it produces small white or pink flowers that grow in clusters at the top of the stem.

Care Guide

The Crassula Moschata is an easy plant to care for, making it a popular choice for beginners. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:

Water

The plant prefers well-draining soil, so make sure to water it sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.

Fertilization

The plant does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize the plant once every six months with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.

Soil

The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a cactus or succulent mix or make your own by mixing equal parts sand, perlite, and potting soil.

Sunlight

The Crassula Moschata prefers bright, indirect sunlight. You can place the plant near a window that receives morning or evening sun or under a grow light.

Hardiness Zones

The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11, where the temperature does not drop below 20°F (-6.7°C).

Common Pests & Diseases

The Crassula Moschata is generally a disease-free plant. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. The plant is also susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. You can use a neem oil solution to get rid of these pests.

Habitat

The Crassula Moschata is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky outcrops and dry riverbeds. The plant is adapted to hot and dry conditions and can survive long periods of drought. In its natural habitat, the plant is often grown as a groundcover or in rock gardens.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water the Crassula Moschata?

A: The plant prefers well-draining soil, so make sure to water it sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.

Q: What kind of soil is best for the Crassula Moschata?

A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a cactus or succulent mix or make your own by mixing equal parts sand, perlite, and potting soil.

Q: What kind of sunlight does the Crassula Moschata prefer?

A: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. You can place the plant near a window that receives morning or evening sun or under a grow light.

Q: How can I get rid of mealybugs and spider mites on my Crassula Moschata?

A: You can use a neem oil solution to get rid of these pests. Apply the solution to the affected areas every two weeks until the pests are gone.

Related Plants

• Crassula Capensis
• Crassula Ovata
• Crassula Perforata
• Crassula Tetragona

References

• “Crassula Moschata.” World of Succulents, worldofsucculents.com/crassula-moschata-musk-scented-stonecrop.
• “Crassula Moschata.” Mountain Crest Gardens, mountaincrestgardens.com/crassula-moschata.
• “Crassula Moschata.” PlantZAfrica, plantzafrica.com/plantcd/crassulamoschata.htm.