Crassula cultrata, also known as Propeller Plant or Bush Plakkie, is a distinctive succulent native to South Africa. This plant is popular for both indoor and outdoor cultivation due to its unique foliage and low-maintenance care.
Crassula Cultrata Characteristics
Crassula cultrata is a succulent shrub, typically growing 12 to 32 inches tall, with woody, upright branches up to 0.4 inches in diameter. Its most notable feature is the fleshy, knife-shaped leaves, arranged in opposite pairs along the stems. These leaves are typically green, often with yellowish-green hues, and can develop reddish margins or turn reddish-brown when exposed to bright sunlight or drought. The smooth leaves measure up to 4 inches long and 1.4 inches wide.
The plant produces elongated flower stems, 6 to 16 inches long, bearing loosely clustered, small, tubular, cream-colored flowers with green sepals, about 0.3 inches long. They commonly appear in summer, arranged in a thyrse with one terminal and several smaller heads on side branches.
Crassula Cultrata Care
Light
Crassula cultrata thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but tolerates some direct sun. An ideal indoor placement is a south or east-facing window. Insufficient light causes etiolation, making the plant stretch, appear spindly, and lose color. Intense direct sunlight, especially in summer, may scorch leaves and stems.
Watering
Watering Crassula cultrata requires a careful approach to prevent root rot. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until excess drains, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. Watering frequency varies; reduce it during hot weather or cooler dormancy periods to once every 1-2 weeks.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is essential for Crassula cultrata to prevent waterlogging. A specialized cactus or succulent potting mix is recommended. For a custom blend, mix standard potting soil with 50% to 70% mineral grit like coarse sand, pumice, or perlite to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
Temperature and Humidity
Crassula cultrata prefers mild temperatures, ideally 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C) during the day, tolerating night temperatures down to 50°F (10°C). Protect it from frost, as freezing conditions can severely damage the plant. Average household humidity is suitable, as this succulent is adapted to dry air. Avoid high humidity to prevent fungal issues; good air circulation is beneficial.
Fertilizing
Fertilization is not always necessary for Crassula cultrata. If desired, apply a diluted, balanced water-soluble fertilizer sparingly, once a month or every six weeks, during its active growing season in spring and summer. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup and plant damage. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Dormancy
Crassula cultrata typically experiences dormancy in summer when temperatures exceed 86°F (30°C) and in winter below 41°F (5°C). During these periods, growth slows, and water and nutrient absorption reduce. Decrease watering considerably and withhold fertilization entirely. Maintaining a dry, well-ventilated environment is helpful.
Propagating Crassula Cultrata
Propagating Crassula cultrata is straightforward, commonly done through stem or leaf cuttings, offering an easy way to expand your collection.
Stem Cuttings
Select a healthy stem and make a clean cut with sterilized scissors or a knife. Allow the cut end to callus for a few days to prevent rot. Insert the callused cutting into well-draining succulent potting mix, ensuring about 0.8 inches of the stem is in the soil. Water lightly when the soil dries out; roots should form within weeks.
Leaf Propagation
Leaf propagation is also effective, typically in spring or autumn. Choose a healthy, whole leaf and lay it flat on slightly humid, well-draining soil, ensuring the base contacts the substrate. Provide bright, scattered light and maintain around 77°F (25°C). New buds and roots usually appear within one to two weeks; once developed, transfer the new plant to its own pot.
Common Problems and Solutions
Overwatering is a frequent problem, causing mushy leaves, blackening, and root rot. If symptoms appear, improve drainage, reduce watering, and consider repotting into fresh, dry succulent mix after trimming rotted roots. Conversely, underwatering causes shriveling or crispy leaves, indicating a need for increased watering frequency until the soil is thoroughly saturated.
Insufficient light causes leggy, stretched growth (etiolation) and dull leaf color. Move the plant to a brighter location with ample indirect sunlight, such as a south-facing window, or use grow lights.
Pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites can affect Crassula cultrata. Regularly inspect for infestations. Small infestations can be treated by wiping pests with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; for severe cases, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Leaf drop can occur due to stressors like extreme temperature changes, overwatering, or underwatering. Address the underlying cause to help the plant recover. Natural shedding of older leaves is normal.