The Crassula Ivory Tower is a visually striking succulent, cherished for its distinctive growth habit and attractive foliage. Its compact, sculptural presence makes it a popular ornamental addition.
Characteristics of Crassula Ivory Tower
The Crassula Ivory Tower is known for its columnar, stacked growth, forming an upright “tower” of leaves. Its thick, fleshy leaves are typically triangular and display a silvery-green to pale green or ivory coloration. In strong light, leaf margins can develop a reddish tint. This succulent can reach 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) tall. While primarily grown for its unique foliage, it may produce small, star-shaped white or pale pink flowers on tall stalks during summer.
Crassula Ivory Tower Care
Light Requirements
Crassula Ivory Tower thrives in bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its pale ivory-green color. While it can tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun, excessive exposure to intense direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Insufficient light, conversely, often leads to etiolation, where the plant stretches and becomes leggy as it seeks more light. For indoor growth, placing the plant near a south or west-facing window, with a sheer curtain to filter harsh rays, provides adequate light.
Watering Needs
Water Crassula Ivory Tower using the “soak and dry” method. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. When watering, thoroughly soak the soil until water drains from the pot’s bottom, then empty any excess water from the saucer. Overwatering can lead to mushy, yellowing leaves that detach easily, while underwatering may cause leaves to shrivel and wrinkle. Reduce watering frequency during its winter dormancy.
Soil Preferences
Crassula Ivory Tower requires a well-draining, gritty soil mix to prevent water retention around its roots. Use a high-quality succulent or cactus potting mix, or create your own with amendments such as perlite, coarse sand, pumice, or crushed granite. These additions improve drainage and aeration, essential for succulent health. Avoid heavy, dense soils that can trap moisture and lead to root issues.
Temperature and Humidity
This succulent prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 80°F (15°C and 27°C). It can withstand temperatures ranging from 40°F to 90°F (4°C to 32°C) for brief periods. However, it is sensitive to frost; temperatures below 30°F (-1°C) can cause significant damage or even kill the plant. Crassula Ivory Tower tolerates low humidity levels well, being adapted to arid conditions. Good air circulation around the plant helps prevent excessive moisture buildup.
Fertilizing
Crassula Ivory Tower has minimal fertilization requirements and often does not need regular feeding. If you choose to fertilize, do so sparingly during its active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble succulent-specific fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing during winter dormancy. Always water the plant before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.
Propagating Crassula Ivory Tower
Crassula Ivory Tower can be propagated effectively from both stem and leaf cuttings. For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem with at least two to three sets of leaves and use a clean, sharp tool to snip between the leaf sets. After making a cut, allow the cutting to “callus” or dry for a few days to a week until a protective layer forms over the wound; this helps prevent rot.
Once callused, plant the cutting in a pot filled with fresh, well-draining succulent soil. Place the potted cutting in a bright, warm location away from direct, harsh sunlight. Water very sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, until roots begin to establish. While water propagation is possible, soil propagation is generally recommended for succulents to promote healthier root development.
Troubleshooting Crassula Ivory Tower Problems
Overwatering is a frequent issue, often leading to root rot and mushy, yellowing, or transparent leaves that may fall off easily. To address this, allow the soil to dry completely, reduce watering frequency, and ensure adequate drainage. Conversely, underwatering can cause leaves to shrivel, wrinkle, or appear dull.
Insufficient light results in etiolation, where stems stretch and become leggy, and leaves become paler and more spaced out. Gradually move the plant to a brighter location to correct this. Common pests like mealybugs, scale, and spider mites can also affect Crassula Ivory Tower. Regularly inspect for infestation; prompt treatment, such as physical removal or rubbing alcohol, helps manage these issues.