Crassula ‘Burgundy’ is a popular and attractive succulent, admired for its distinctive coloration and relatively easy care. Its vibrant burgundy hues add a striking element to indoor settings, making it suitable for both new and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Crassula Burgundy Characteristics
Crassula ‘Burgundy’, a cultivar of Crassula nudicaulis var. platyphylla, is native to South Africa and belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It typically grows as a compact shrub, forming dense foliage clusters.
The plant features thick, fleshy, oval-shaped leaves arranged in opposite pairs or tight stacks along short stems. While naturally green, the leaves develop a deep red to burgundy flush when exposed to cooler temperatures or increased sunlight. Crassula ‘Burgundy’ generally reaches a mature height of up to 6 inches (15 cm). Small white to pinkish flowers may appear at the stem tips in late spring or summer.
Crassula Burgundy Care
Light
Crassula ‘Burgundy’ thrives in bright light conditions, requiring at least six hours of sunlight daily to maintain its vibrant burgundy coloration. Placing it near a south-facing window indoors is often ideal to ensure it receives sufficient light. While it enjoys ample sun, direct, intense afternoon sun, especially in hot climates, can cause sunburn or scorching of the leaves. Partial shade is sometimes preferred to prevent such damage, particularly during the hottest parts of the day.
Watering
Proper watering is essential for the health of Crassula ‘Burgundy’, as succulents are sensitive to overwatering. The general rule is to water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain completely from the pot, and then permit the soil to dry out entirely before the next watering. Checking the soil moisture by inserting a finger several inches deep helps determine if it is dry enough. Overwatering can lead to mushy leaves, drooping stems, and potentially fatal root rot, while underwatering can cause leaves to shrivel or wrinkle. Seasonal adjustments are necessary, with less frequent watering during its summer dormancy or in cooler, more humid conditions.
Soil Requirements
Crassula ‘Burgundy’ requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is highly recommended, as these are formulated to provide adequate aeration and drainage. For enhanced drainage, you can amend regular potting soil with materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. Avoid using pre-fertilized or heavy, moisture-retentive soils, which can retain too much water and hinder healthy growth.
Temperature and Humidity
This succulent prefers warm environments and thrives in temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). It can tolerate slightly cooler nighttime temperatures, down to about 50°F (10°C). Crassula ‘Burgundy’ is not frost-tolerant, and temperatures below 25°F (-3.9°C) can cause damage or be fatal. While it prefers low humidity, it can adapt to typical indoor conditions. In very humid outdoor climates, the plant may become soft and soggy, making indoor cultivation preferable in such areas.
Fertilizing
Crassula ‘Burgundy’ does not require heavy fertilization, as succulents are adapted to nutrient-poor environments. If you choose to fertilize, apply a balanced, water-soluble succulent-specific fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength. Fertilizing once per season during the active growing period, typically spring and autumn, is sufficient. Avoid fertilizing during its dormancy in summer or winter, as excessive nutrients can be detrimental and lead to salt buildup in the soil.
Propagating Crassula Burgundy
Propagating Crassula ‘Burgundy’ is straightforward and can be achieved through stem or leaf cuttings. The best time for propagation is during the plant’s active growing season, typically in spring or summer, to encourage faster rooting. This method allows for the creation of new plants that are genetically identical to the parent.
For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem segment and use a clean, sharp knife. For leaf cuttings, gently twist a healthy leaf from the main stem, ensuring the entire leaf is intact. After taking the cuttings, allow them to air dry for several days to a week until the cut end forms a dry, protective callus. This callusing process is important to prevent rot once the cutting is planted.
Once callused, plant cuttings in a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. For stem cuttings, insert the callused end into the soil. For leaf cuttings, lay the callused leaf flat on the soil surface. Keep the soil lightly moist, but avoid overwatering, and provide bright, indirect light to support root development. Roots form within a few weeks to a couple of months.
Common Problems and Solutions
Crassula ‘Burgundy’ is resilient, but common issues can arise from environmental factors or improper care. Addressing them promptly helps maintain plant health, with symptom recognition being the first step.
If the plant’s signature burgundy coloration is lacking, it indicates insufficient light exposure. Moving the plant to a location with brighter, more direct sunlight (ideally six hours daily) will intensify its hues. Conversely, mushy, soft, or rotting leaves indicate overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, and ensure adequate pot drainage to prevent root rot.
Wrinkled or shriveled leaves signal underwatering, meaning the plant needs a thorough drink. After watering, leaves should plump up within a day or two. Leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems and widely spaced leaves, results from insufficient light. Pruning leggy sections and relocating the plant to a brighter spot encourages denser, more compact growth.
Common pests include mealybugs (white, cottony masses), aphids (tiny, soft-bodied insects), and spider mites (fine webbing). Regular inspection aids early detection, and infestations can be treated by wiping pests with rubbing alcohol or applying insecticidal soap.