The Crassula Hottentot, often recognized as “String of Buttons” or “Pagoda Plant,” presents a distinctive appearance with its stacked, coin-like leaves arranged along trailing stems. This unique growth habit and architectural form make it a visually appealing addition to any indoor plant collection. Its reputation as a straightforward, low-maintenance succulent contributes to its popularity.
Crassula Hottentot Care
Crassula Hottentot thrives in bright, indirect light conditions, ideally receiving several hours of filtered sunlight daily. Place the plant in a south or west-facing window, where it can receive ample light without direct, harsh midday sun. Prolonged exposure to intense, direct sunlight can cause stress, often indicated by a reddish tint appearing on the leaf margins.
Water Crassula Hottentot using the “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. After thorough drying, water generously until excess drains from the pot’s bottom. Adjust watering frequency seasonally, as plants generally require less water during their dormant winter months compared to their active growing period in spring and summer.
Crassula Hottentot requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging around its roots. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal, as these formulations are designed to promote rapid drainage. Alternatively, regular potting soil can be amended with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand at a ratio of approximately 1:1 to improve aeration and drainage.
Crassula Hottentot performs best within average room temperatures, typically ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). While it can tolerate slight temperature fluctuations, sudden drops below 50°F (10°C) should be avoided. The plant has low humidity requirements and generally thrives in the typical indoor humidity levels found in most homes.
Crassula Hottentot is not a heavy feeder. During its active growing season, which typically spans from spring through summer, a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents can be applied once every two to four weeks at half the recommended strength. Refrain from fertilizing during the plant’s dormant period in fall and winter.
Propagating Crassula Hottentot
Propagating Crassula Hottentot is a straightforward process, making it simple to expand your collection or share with others. Stem cuttings are the most reliable and commonly used method, as this plant readily roots from cuttings.
Select a healthy stem section that is at least 3 to 4 inches long. Using clean, sharp pruning shears, make a cut just below a leaf node. Allow the cutting to air dry for several days in a well-ventilated area until the cut end forms a dry, protective callus; this helps prevent rot when planted.
Once the callus has formed, insert the cut end about an inch deep into a pot filled with well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Lightly moisten the soil and place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light. Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks, after which the plant can be watered more regularly like a mature specimen.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Overwatering is a frequent concern. Symptoms such as mushy, yellowing leaves, or soft, dark stems often indicate root rot caused by excessive moisture. Allow the soil to dry out completely, and in severe cases, repot into fresh, dry soil after trimming any rotted roots. Adjusting the watering schedule to allow for complete soil dryness between applications is important for preventing recurrence.
Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth, a condition known as etiolation, where stems become elongated and leaves are sparsely spaced. Moving the plant to a brighter location, such as a south or west-facing window, can correct this. Pruning back the leggy sections can encourage bushier, more compact growth.
Crassula Hottentot can occasionally be susceptible to common succulent pests like mealybugs or spider mites. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses, often in leaf axils, while spider mites cause fine webbing and tiny discolored spots on leaves. A diluted solution of rubbing alcohol applied with a cotton swab can treat localized infestations of mealybugs. For more widespread issues, an insecticidal soap can be applied according to product instructions.
Leaf drop or shriveling can be caused by either underwatering or extreme temperature fluctuations. If leaves are dry and shriveled, the plant likely needs a thorough watering. If the plant has been exposed to temperatures outside its preferred range, moving it to a more stable environment can help it recover. Consistent care practices minimize such stress responses.