Succulents are always on the list of the most popular plants, because they have a striking and exotic appearance, while being very undemanding in terms of care. Among the many varieties that exist, today we want to talk to you about the Crassula pellucida.
Like all succulents, it is particularly resistant to drought and taking care of it will not take too much time. This makes it a good choice even for those who are just starting out in the beautiful world of gardening and for those who are “bad hands” with plants.
What is the natural habitat of Crassula pellucida?
To take good care of your plants you should always know a little about their place of origin and the conditions they encounter in their natural habitat, because this will help you get an idea of what It is what they need to grow strong and healthy.
This succulent is native to South Africa, where it typically grows in natural habitats including coastal areas, rocky cliffs, and mountain slopes.
What this species is found in its place of origin is:
- Mediterranean climate. With warm, dry summers and mild, humid winters, it is therefore a plant capable of withstanding periods of water stress.
- Stony soils. This succulent grows in rocky or sandy soils with a high drainage capacity, which prevents water from accumulating in its roots.
- Sun exposure. It receives abundant sunlight for much of the year, which is why it develops best when it receives direct light.
- Dry environment and low humidity. In its natural habitat, Crassula pellucida grows in an environment with very low humidity, in semi-arid regions. As access to nutrients is scarce and there is more competition between plants to access available water and nutrients, succulents have slow growth.
What physical characteristics identify this plant?
There are many succulents, but Crassula pellucida is a species that is easily distinguishable thanks to its appearance.
Size
It is a low-growing plant, which usually does not exceed 10 or 15 cm in height. In fact, it is commonly used to form plant carpets and cover floors. In its Indoor cultivation gives good results in small pots.
It has a creeping habit, as it grows more horizontally than vertically. Precisely for this reason, if it is planted in a pot it can acquire a hanging habit.
Tallos
The stems of this plant are thin and elongated, so flexible that they can become somewhat fragile, so it is best not to manipulate them too much.
As for its color, it can vary from light green to reddish or purple, depending on the number of hours of sunlight the plant receives.
Leaves
The leaves of this plant are its most distinctive feature. They are thick and fleshy leaves like those we can see in other succulents, because it is in this area where the plant stores water.
These are small leaves that grow in opposite pairs along the stems, and whose shape can vary between elliptical and heart-shaped. As for their color, this can vary between different shades of green, with margins or veins in pink, purple or red tones.
One of its peculiarities is that the leaves can acquire a very intense reddish or purple tone, which is a symptom that they are receiving too much sun or suffering from water stress. If your plant has this color, make sure it receives some partial shade and water it more frequently.
Flores
As with many succulents, the flowers are not the most striking feature of this plant, but they are nice to look at.
They appear when the weather is warm, although in optimal conditions Crassula pellucida can bloom several times a year. The flowers appear in small clusters at the end of the stems and are quite small, in shades ranging from white to pale pink.
Crassula pellucida care
To enjoy a beautiful and healthy plant we must avoid the Common mistakes when growing succulentsIf you follow the care tips below, you will enjoy the beauty of this plant for years to come.
Light conditions and location
This succulent needs bright light to grow, but it does best if it receives indirect or filtered light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but not for too long. since its leaves can burn.
Depending on the amount of sunlight it receives, the leaves will have one colour or another. If the colour is predominantly green, try to place the plant in a place where it receives a little more light, otherwise it could become etiolated.
The perfect location for a potted Crassula pellucida is near an east or west facing window. If you have it as an outdoor plant, make sure it receives some partial shade during the central hours of the day.
Irrigation frequency and method
This plant can withstand drought, but it should not be subjected to unnecessary water stress. It is best to water when the substrate is completely dry, to minimize the risk that its roots may rot due to excess water.
In summer you can water once a week or every 10 days, depending on the heat. In winter, you only need to water once a month or when you notice that the substrate is completely dry.
The best way to water is to let the water run through the soil and drain out of the holes in the pot. If you have placed a saucer under the container, remove it until the water is completely drained. the substrate has stopped draining water, thus avoiding the roots being in continuous contact with water.
Substrate for Crassula pellucida
All succulents need a well-drained substrate. The best thing to do in these cases is to use a product specially developed for cacti and succulents or, failing that, combine:
- Two parts universal substrate.
- One part coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage.
- A part of gravel to aerate the roots and prevent the soil from compacting.
With a good substrate, a correct location and moderate watering, you will get your Crassula pellucida to look its best. Can you tell us about your experience with this beautiful succulent?