Crassula schimperi is a captivating succulent, admired for its compact size and appealing foliage. It is a popular choice for both seasoned succulent enthusiasts and new gardeners. Its resilience and distinct appearance offer natural beauty with relatively straightforward care.
Crassula schimperi Identification and Origin
Crassula schimperi is a small, branching succulent with sprawling stems and triangular leaves. These leaves are typically green, but can develop reddish tints in brighter light. The plant forms a compact shrub or mat-like spread, reaching 9-12 inches tall.
It is native to East Africa, growing in mountainous regions up to 13,000 feet, including Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Sudan. Its natural environment is shadier and wetter than many other succulents, influencing its care requirements. It is sometimes referred to as Schimper’s Crassula.
Crassula schimperi Care Guide
Light Requirements
Crassula schimperi thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to its natural shadier habitat. Ideal placement is near a south-facing window indoors or in filtered/partial sun outdoors. While it tolerates some direct morning sun, prolonged exposure to intense afternoon rays can scorch leaves. Insufficient light may cause the plant to stretch and become leggy.
Watering Practices
Crassula schimperi prefers infrequent, deep watering, especially during its active growing season. The “soak and dry” method is recommended: water thoroughly until it drains, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot, so it is safer to underwater. During cooler months, or when the plant is less actively growing, reduce watering frequency significantly.
Soil and Potting
Well-draining soil is crucial for Crassula schimperi to prevent root rot and ensure proper aeration. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix, including 50-70% mineral grit like coarse sand, pumice, or perlite, is highly effective. Pots with drainage holes are essential to allow excess water to escape; terracotta pots are a good choice due to their porous nature. Repotting is generally needed only when the plant becomes root-bound, typically every two to three years.
Temperature and Humidity
Crassula schimperi prefers warm environments, with ideal daytime temperatures ranging from 65-75°F (18-24°C). It tolerates slightly cooler nighttime temperatures, down to around 50°F (10°C), but is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing conditions. While it appreciates good air circulation, this succulent adapts to a wide range of humidity levels and typically thrives in average indoor humidity.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Crassula schimperi is not strictly necessary, but it can encourage more vigorous growth in mature plants. If you choose to fertilize, do so sparingly and only during the plant’s active growing season, typically spring and summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents, diluted to half or quarter strength, about once a month or every six weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the plant’s dormant period to prevent weakening or burning the roots.
Propagating Crassula schimperi
Propagating Crassula schimperi is straightforward, primarily through stem or leaf cuttings. For stem cuttings, select a healthy segment with at least a few leaves and use a clean, sharp tool. Allow the cut end to callus for a few days to a week to prevent rot. After callusing, plant the stem cutting about an inch deep in well-draining succulent soil.
Leaf propagation involves gently twisting a healthy, intact leaf from the plant, ensuring the entire base is present. Similar to stem cuttings, allow the leaf to callus for several days before placing it on moist, well-draining succulent soil. Both methods benefit from warm temperatures and bright, indirect light for root development. Lightly mist the soil to maintain slight moisture, but avoid overwatering.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Crassula schimperi can encounter common issues, often related to improper care. Overwatering is a frequent problem, leading to mushy or yellowing leaves and root rot. If leaves become soft and discolored, reduce watering frequency and ensure the soil dries out completely between applications. Conversely, shriveled or dry leaves indicate underwatering, requiring a thorough soak to rehydrate the plant.
Insufficient light can cause the plant to develop leggy, stretched-out growth as it seeks more illumination. Moving the plant to a brighter location with more indirect sunlight can help correct this issue. Pests such as mealybugs and spider mites can also affect Crassula schimperi. Regularly inspecting for signs like white, cotton-like masses (mealybugs) or fine webbing (spider mites) allows for early intervention, often with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or an insecticidal soap solution.