The Crassula ‘Curly Green’, also known as Ripple Jade or Curly Jade, is a distinctive succulent prized for its unique, wavy, or rippled leaves. Its fleshy, blue-to-gray-green leaves often develop reddish edges with ample sunlight. Originating from South Africa, this plant is popular due to its striking appearance and straightforward care. It forms compact rosettes and can eventually develop a woody trunk, making it an attractive indoor plant.
Crassula Curly Green Care
Light
Crassula ‘Curly Green’ thrives in bright, indirect light, which helps maintain its compact growth and vibrant coloration. While it tolerates some direct sun, especially morning sun, intense afternoon sunlight can scorch its leaves. Place the plant in a spot receiving at least six hours of bright, indirect light, such as a south-facing window with protection. Insufficient light can cause the plant to stretch, leading to leggy growth and less intense leaf color.
Watering
Proper watering is important for Crassula ‘Curly Green’, as succulents store water in their leaves. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until it drains from the pot, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. Overwatering is a common problem that can lead to root rot and mushy leaves. During cooler months, especially winter when growth slows, reduce watering frequency.
Soil and Potting
Crassula ‘Curly Green’ requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is suitable, or amend standard potting soil with perlite or pumice to enhance drainage. Pots must have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Repotting is infrequent, usually every few years, and do it during the spring or summer growing season if the plant becomes root-bound or top-heavy.
Temperature and Humidity
This succulent prefers average household temperatures, between 15-24°C (60-75°F). While it adapts well to typical indoor humidity, it is sensitive to frost and temperatures below 0°C (30°F), which can damage or kill the plant. Protect the plant from sudden temperature changes and cold drafts to prevent stress.
Fertilizing
Crassula ‘Curly Green’ does not require frequent fertilization. If fertilizing, apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer or a succulent-specific formula sparingly during its active growing season in spring and summer. Over-fertilizing can harm the plant, so use a very weak solution, once a month or every few months. During the plant’s semi-dormant period in fall and winter, withhold fertilization entirely.
Propagation and Troubleshooting
Propagation
Propagating Crassula ‘Curly Green’ is straightforward, most commonly achieved through stem or leaf cuttings. Take a healthy stem or leaf cutting and allow the cut end to “callus” or dry for a few days to a week. This callusing prevents rot when planted. Once callused, insert the cutting into a well-draining succulent soil mix, burying it about an inch deep for stems or simply placing leaves on the soil surface. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots develop, which occurs within a few weeks, and new growth appears.
Common Issues
Common problems with Crassula ‘Curly Green’ relate to improper watering or light. Overwatering can lead to soft, mushy leaves and root rot, while underwatering may cause leaves to shrivel. If the plant exhibits stretched or leggy growth with widely spaced leaves, it indicates insufficient light. Pests like mealybugs can infest the plant, appearing as white, cotton-like masses; these can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or treated with neem oil.