The Crassula lycopodioides, also known as Watch Chain Plant or Rattail Crassula, is a succulent featuring distinctive, tightly packed, scale-like leaves that form a chain-like appearance. Native to South Africa and Namibia, it offers a captivating texture. This article guides you on its proper care.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
The Watch Chain Plant thrives in bright, indirect light, receiving at least six hours of daily sunlight. Place it near a south-facing window indoors or in an outdoor location with morning sun and afternoon shade. Too much direct, intense midday sun can scorch its leaves, while insufficient light can cause the plant to become leggy.
Water
Watering Crassula lycopodioides is important. Employ the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until it drains, then allow the soil to dry completely before rewatering. Overwatering can quickly lead to root rot, a common issue for succulents, while underwatering may cause the leaves to shrivel. Reduce watering frequency during autumn and winter when the plant is less active.
Soil
Well-draining soil is important for the Watch Chain Plant. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal. You can also create a custom blend by mixing equal parts of potting soil, perlite or pumice, and coarse sand. Pots must have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
Temperature and Humidity
Crassula lycopodioides prefers average room temperatures, ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). It can tolerate slight temperature fluctuations, but temperatures below 50°F (10°C) should be avoided, especially in wet conditions, as it can cause mushiness and yellowing. Like most succulents, it has low humidity requirements and thrives in dry indoor air, with ideal humidity levels around 30% to 40%.
Fertilizer
Fertilize the Watch Chain Plant sparingly, only during its active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so it is safer to under-fertilize than to over-fertilize. If repotting annually, additional fertilizer may not be necessary as fresh soil provides sufficient nutrients.
Common Problems and Solutions
Legginess, or etiolation, occurs when Crassula lycopodioides does not receive enough light, causing stems to stretch and appear sparse. Gradually move the plant to a brighter location with more indirect sunlight. If leaves shrivel, it indicates underwatering; increase watering frequency using the “soak and dry” method. Conversely, mushy stems or root rot are signs of overwatering, requiring reduced watering and potential repotting into dry, well-draining soil. Common pests like mealybugs can be dabbed with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol to remove them.
Propagation and Repotting
Propagation
Propagating Crassula lycopodioides is straightforward using stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem cutting, about 3 inches long, and allow the cut end to “callus” or dry for a few days to a week to prevent rot. Once callused, insert the cutting into well-draining succulent or cactus soil. Keep the soil slightly moist until roots develop, which occurs within a few weeks.
Repotting
Repotting is recommended every two to three years to refresh soil and provide space for growth. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, with drainage holes. The best time to repot is during the plant’s active growing season in spring or early summer to minimize stress. After repotting, wait a few days before watering to allow any disturbed roots to settle.