The Crassula mesembryanthemoides is a unique succulent with a distinctive appearance and straightforward care. Often called “Crassula Ice Plant” or “Dwarf Stonecrop Crassula,” it adds a frosted, textured element to any collection. Its compact growth and unusual foliage make it a favored choice for indoor or outdoor spaces.
What is Crassula mesembryanthemoides
Crassula mesembryanthemoides is a succulent shrub native to the Karoo, Valley Bushveld, and Eastern Cape regions of South Africa. This plant typically grows to about 12 to 16 inches in height, developing a shrub-like habit that can be as wide as it is tall. Its scientific name reflects its resemblance to plants of the genus Mesembryanthemum.
The plant is characterized by its green, fleshy leaves, which are densely covered with soft, fine, white hairs, giving it a fuzzy or frosted appearance. These specialized hairs help the plant retain moisture and protect it from intense sun exposure. The stems are also covered in soft hair but become woody and reddish-brown as the plant matures. Crassula mesembryanthemoides produces small, bell-shaped flowers, typically white or cream, that appear in clusters at the ends of its branches in the fall and winter.
Crassula mesembryanthemoides Care
Light Needs
Crassula mesembryanthemoides thrives in bright, indirect light indoors. A south, west, or east-facing window generally provides suitable conditions. Insufficient light can cause etiolation, where the plant becomes elongated or stretched. Outdoors, this succulent benefits from filtered or partial sun exposure. Protect the plant from intense afternoon sun, which can cause sunburn. At least six hours of daily sunlight is optimal.
Watering Practices
Water using the “soak and dry” method: water deeply until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry completely. Overwatering commonly leads to root rot.
Watering frequency depends on environmental conditions like temperature and humidity. During active growing seasons (spring and autumn), water more frequently. Reduce watering to once every one to two weeks in winter or dormancy. Always check soil moisture before watering.
Ideal Soil Mix
Crassula mesembryanthemoides requires a well-draining, well-aerated soil mix to prevent water retention and root rot. A commercial succulent or cactus mix is suitable. Ingredients like gravel, coarse sand, pumice, or perlite should make up 50% to 70% of the mix.
A custom mix of equal parts coarse sand, perlite, and potting soil also works. For outdoor planting, ensure garden soil drains quickly; otherwise, consider raised beds or berms. Containers must always have drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
Crassula mesembryanthemoides prefers moderate temperatures and is not cold tolerant. It thrives in mild spring and autumn temperatures. The plant tolerates average summer temperatures from 65°F to 70°F (18°C to 21°C). If temperatures drop below 30°F (-1.1°C), especially with consistent freezing, move the plant indoors to prevent frost damage or death. It generally performs well in low humidity.
Fertilization
Crassula mesembryanthemoides does not require heavy fertilization, as succulents thrive in limited nutrient environments. If desired, apply a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 2-7-7) sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during dormancy, as the plant cannot absorb excess nutrients, which could cause harm. Newly purchased or recently repotted plants do not need fertilizer for their first year.
Propagating Your Plant
Propagate Crassula mesembryanthemoides using stem or leaf cuttings. Stem cuttings generally offer a higher success rate. For stem cuttings, use sharp, clean shears to remove a stem portion, then allow it to dry and form a callous for several days before planting; this prevents rot. Insert calloused cuttings into well-draining succulent or cactus soil. Rooting hormone can encourage faster development but is not strictly necessary.
Leaf cuttings are another viable method. Select a healthy, whole leaf and cut it cleanly. Lay the calloused leaf flat on slightly humid soil, cut end touching the surface. Provide bright, scattered light and maintain 77°F (25°C) for optimal bud growth, appearing within one to two weeks.
Potting and Repotting Guidelines
Select a pot with good drainage holes. Terracotta pots are often preferred because their porous nature allows soil to dry more quickly, preventing excess moisture. Pot size should be proportional to the plant, avoiding overly large containers that retain too much moisture.
Repot every two to three years, or when the plant is root-bound or shows stunted growth. Spring, at the start of the active growth period, is the best time to repot. Before repotting, stop watering a few days in advance to dry the soil.
Gently remove the plant from its old container. Lightly prune dense or unhealthy roots to encourage new growth. Place the plant in the new pot, spread roots, and slowly add fresh, well-draining succulent soil. Water thoroughly after repotting.
Addressing Common Problems
Root rot is a common issue, primarily caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Symptoms include drooping, yellowing, or browning leaves that fall off easily, and a soft or mushy stem near the base. If suspected, remove the plant, inspect roots for mushy, dark areas, and trim affected portions with clean shears. Repot into fresh, well-draining soil and adjust watering.
Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth, where the plant stretches and appears spindly with pale leaves. Moving the plant to a brighter location or providing supplemental grow lights can correct this.
Pest infestations, such as mealybugs or spider mites, can also affect Crassula mesembryanthemoides. Mealybugs appear as small, cotton-like masses, while spider mites create fine webbing and cause leaf discoloration. Regularly inspecting helps with early detection. If pests are found, dab them off with rubbing alcohol or treat with insecticidal soap.