Crassula lycopodioides, known as Watch Chain Plant, Princess Pine, or Lizard’s Tail, is a popular succulent. Its distinctive, segmented stems resemble a chain or reptilian form, and its care is relatively straightforward.
What is Crassula lycopodioides
Crassula lycopodioides is a succulent belonging to the Crassulaceae family, native to the semi-arid and arid regions of South Africa and Namibia. This plant forms intricate, bushy structures with slender, branching stems that initially grow upright before trailing due to their weight. Its distinctive look comes from tiny, tightly overlapping, scale-like leaves densely packed around thin stems, creating a segmented, square shape. Crassula lycopodioides is a slow-growing succulent, typically reaching heights of 4 to 16 inches, making it well-suited for various indoor settings, including terrariums or as part of mixed succulent arrangements.
Crassula lycopodioides Care Guide
Light Requirements
Crassula lycopodioides thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing it in an east or west-facing window is often ideal, providing ample light without the intensity of direct midday sun. While it appreciates bright light, harsh, direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, leading to browning or hardening of segments. Conversely, insufficient light can cause the plant to stretch and become leggy, a condition known as etiolation.
Watering Needs
The “soak and dry” method is most suitable for watering Crassula lycopodioides. This involves thoroughly watering the plant until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then allowing the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. Overwatering is a common issue for succulents and can lead to root rot, a fungal disease that can quickly damage the plant. During the cooler winter months, when the plant’s growth slows, watering frequency should be significantly reduced, potentially to about once a month.
Soil and Potting
Well-draining soil is important for Crassula lycopodioides. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix, often with perlite or coarse sand, enhances drainage. These gritty components prevent water from sitting around the roots, helping prevent root rot. A pot with adequate drainage holes is also important for excess water to escape freely.
Temperature and Humidity
Crassula lycopodioides prefers average room temperatures, generally ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). While it can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures during winter, prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause stress. These plants are adapted to low to average humidity levels, typical of most indoor environments. High humidity can contribute to fungal problems, so providing good air circulation is beneficial.
Fertilizing
Crassula lycopodioides does not require frequent fertilization. During its active growing season in spring and summer, a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer can be applied sparingly. Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient burn or excessive, weak growth, so it is best to err on the side of caution. Fertilizing should be avoided entirely during the plant’s dormant period in fall and winter.
Propagating Crassula lycopodioides
Propagating Crassula lycopodioides is a straightforward process, primarily achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem segment, a few inches long with several nodes, and use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to make a cut. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days until the cut end forms a callus, which helps prevent rot when planted. Once callused, plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining succulent or cactus mix, burying the bottom portion of the stem slightly. Place the potted cutting in indirect light and water sparingly until new roots begin to establish, which typically takes a few weeks.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Crassula lycopodioides can experience a few common issues, often related to environmental conditions. If the plant appears stretched with elongated stems and widely spaced leaves, this indicates etiolation, caused by insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location with more indirect light will help correct this growth habit.
Rotting stems or roots, characterized by mushy, discolored areas, are typically a sign of overwatering. If root rot is suspected, remove the plant from its pot, trim away any affected roots, and repot in fresh, dry, well-draining soil, adjusting future watering practices. Shriveling or wrinkled leaves can suggest underwatering, or in severe cases, advanced root rot; checking the soil moisture and roots can help determine the cause. Pests like mealybugs or spider mites can occasionally affect these plants, and can often be managed by wiping them off or using insecticidal soap.
Is Crassula lycopodioides Toxic
Crassula lycopodioides is considered mildly toxic if ingested. Like other plants in the Crassula genus, it contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets, such as cats and dogs, and potentially in humans. Symptoms typically include vomiting or diarrhea. To ensure safety, it is advisable to keep Crassula lycopodioides out of reach of curious pets and small children.