The Crassula platyphylla Craze: Why This Succulent is Taking Over
Succulent lovers, prepare to be obsessed! Crassula platyphylla, the newest “it” plant, is causing a frenzy with its striking looks and easy care. With fleshy green leaves edged in burgundy, this petite beauty is quickly becoming a must-have for trendy indoor gardens. Why is everyone going crazy over this little succulent? Let’s dig in!
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About Crassula platyphylla
Native to South Africa, Crassula platyphylla is a small but hardy succulent with thick, ovate leaves clustered along slender stems. The leaves are a vibrant green hue, sporting eye-catching red edges that deepen to purple-burgundy shades. In spring and summer, the plant produces pale green flower clusters at intervals.
While unassuming in size, topping out around 6-8 inches tall, C. platyphylla offers big impact with its distinctive coloring and easy growth. No wonder plant lovers are snatching up this low-maintenance marvel for their homes and gardens!
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How to Care for Crassula platyphylla
Light Needs
Like most succulents, Crassula platyphylla thrives in bright, direct sunlight. An ideal indoor spot is a south or west-facing windowsill receiving at least 6 hours of sun daily. Lack of adequate light will cause leggy growth and prevent flowering.
If you can’t provide sufficient natural light, use a grow light designed for succulents and flowering plants. Position the light 6-12 inches from the plant for 12-16 hours per day. Rotate the pot every few days to ensure even growth.
Water Routine
Overwatering is a top killer of succulents like C. platyphylla. During the growing season from spring through summer, allow the soil to fully dry out between waterings, then soak the soil thoroughly. In winter when dormant, provide just enough water to keep the leaves from shriveling, about once a month.
Soil and Planting
For best results, plant your C. platyphylla in a well-draining potting mix made for cacti and succulents. The ideal medium has a gritty texture with ingredients like coarse sand, perlite or pumice. Drainage holes in the pot are a must to prevent soggy soil.
Fertilizing
Crassula platyphylla has modest fertilizer needs compared to other plants. Feed every 2-3 weeks during spring and summer using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Choose a fertilizer formulated for succulents and cacti. Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant is resting.
Climate
Crassula platyphylla thrives in warm, dry conditions typical of its native South African habitat. The ideal temperature range is between 60°F to 90°F (15°C to 32°C). This succulent cannot tolerate freezing temperatures below 32°F (0°C) for prolonged periods.
In colder climates where winters dip below 50°F (10°C), grow C. platyphylla in containers that can be brought indoors. Provide as much direct sun as possible when outdoors.
Potting & Repotting
Crassula platyphylla has modest root systems and can stay potted for 2-3 years before requiring repotting. Choose a container with ample drainage holes and use a well-draining cactus/succulent potting mix.
When repotting, gently brush away old soil and check for any mushy or rotten roots to prune off. Replant at the same soil depth in a pot just 1-2 inches wider than the previous one. Don’t overpot, as excess soil can lead to moisture issues.
Allow the newly potted plant to dry out completely before watering again. A top dressing of pebbles or grit can help increase drainage and airflow around the base.
Pests and Problems
This resilient succulent is relatively pest and disease-free when provided with the right care. The most common issues arise from overwatering or lack of drainage, which can lead to root rot or fungal diseases.
Be on the lookout for common houseplant pests like mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites. These can usually be treated by wiping leaves with an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.
Crassula platyphylla Propagation Methods
One of the best aspects of C. platyphylla is how easy it is to propagate new plants! Here is a quick guide:
- Leaves:
- Choose a plump, healthy leaf and allow it to callus for 2-3 days after removing
- Plant the calloused leaf in a well-draining soil mix
- Water sparingly after planting until roots and new growth appear
- Stem Cuttings:
- Take a 2-3 inch cutting from a mature stem
- Allow it to callus for 2-3 days
- Plant the cutting in a 50/50 mix of potting soil and perlite or coarse sand
- Water when soil is completely dry
- Offsets:
- Remove offsets/pups from the mother plant with a sharp knife
- Allow offsets to callus for 2-3 days
- Plant offset in fresh succulent potting mix
- Water whenever the soil is completely dried out
With this succulent’s striking looks, easy care, and propagation potential, it’s no wonder Crassula platyphylla is causing such feverish hype! Add this irresistible plant to your collection and let the obsession begin.