Crassula platyphylla, also known as Crassula ‘Burgundy’, is a succulent with small, thick, fleshy leaves that turn vibrant reds and oranges under specific conditions. Its distinctive coloring and compact growth make it a popular choice for succulent enthusiasts. Native to South Africa, it grows in dense clusters, typically reaching about six inches tall.
Crassula Platyphylla Care
Light
Crassula platyphylla needs ample sunlight, ideally at least six hours of direct light daily, but tolerates partial shade. Indoors, a south or west-facing windowsill provides necessary brightness. Insufficient light causes etiolation, making the plant stretch and appear pale. Proper light exposure promotes compact growth and intensifies its vibrant stress colors. However, harsh afternoon sun can cause sunburn, so filtered light may be beneficial during hot periods.
Soil
Crassula platyphylla needs a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Use a specialized succulent or cactus potting mix, or create your own. Incorporate 50% to 70% mineral grit like pumice, perlite, or coarse sand into regular potting soil for drainage and aeration. Avoid pre-fertilized or nutrient-rich soils, as succulents prefer leaner conditions.
Watering
Water Crassula platyphylla using the “soak and dry” method: thoroughly water until it drains, then let the soil dry completely before rewatering. Overwatering often causes root rot, so it is better to underwater. As a winter-growing succulent, its watering needs decrease significantly during summer dormancy (April to September) and increase during active growth in winter and spring.
Temperature and Humidity
Crassula platyphylla prefers warm environments, with ideal daytime temperatures from 65°F to 75°F. It tolerates slightly cooler nighttime temperatures down to 50°F, but prolonged exposure below this can be problematic. The plant is not cold-hardy and needs frost protection, as temperatures below 25°F (-3.9°C) are damaging. It prefers low humidity (30-50%) and can become soft in overly humid conditions.
Fertilizing
Crassula platyphylla has minimal fertilizing needs. If desired, apply a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer during its active growing season in winter and spring. Avoid fertilization during summer dormancy to prevent harm. Too much fertilizer can cause root burn or salt buildup in the soil.
Propagating Crassula Platyphylla
Crassula platyphylla propagates effectively from both leaf and stem cuttings.
Leaf Cuttings
Select a healthy leaf and allow it to dry for a few days until a callus forms over the cut end. This callusing prevents rot and encourages rooting. Once callused, place the leaf on or lightly press it into well-draining soil, then water lightly once the soil dries.
Stem Cuttings
Use a sterile, sharp knife to take a healthy stem section with one to two nodes. Like leaf cuttings, allow the cut end to callous over for several days. Plant it upright in a well-draining rooting medium. After planting, water lightly, waiting for the soil to dry before subsequent waterings until new roots develop. Roots form within a few weeks, and new plantlets will emerge.
Common Problems and Solutions
Overwatering and Underwatering
Overwatering is a common issue, often leading to root rot. Symptoms include mushy leaves, soft stems, yellowing, and a foul soil odor. If root rot is suspected, remove the plant, inspect roots for dark, mushy sections, and prune affected parts with a clean blade. Repot in fresh, dry, well-draining soil and adjust watering to allow complete drying between waterings.
Conversely, underwatering causes leaves to wrinkle, shrivel, and lose plumpness. A thorough watering can rehydrate the plant. Note that very dry conditions can also lead to leaf drop.
Pests
Crassula platyphylla can be affected by common succulent pests like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Mealybugs appear as white, cotton-like masses; aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects; and spider mites create fine webbing. For minor infestations, manually remove pests with a rubbing alcohol-dipped cotton swab, or spray with insecticidal soap or diluted neem oil. Isolate infected plants to prevent spread.
Etiolation
Insufficient light causes etiolation, where the plant stretches, developing long, leggy stems with wider gaps between leaves as it reaches for light. To prevent this, ensure adequate bright light. If etiolation occurs, prune leggy stems to encourage new, compact growth; pruned sections can often be propagated.
Lack of Color
Crassula platyphylla’s vibrant red or burgundy stress colors result from sufficient light exposure and environmental stress, like cooler temperatures or reduced watering. If leaves remain mostly green, it indicates inadequate light or insufficient stress to trigger color pigments. Increasing light exposure, especially with direct sun, encourages these desirable hues.