Adromischus filicaulis is a perennial, succulent plant in the family Crassulaceae. It is commonly called brosplakkies in Afrikaans. The species is endemic to South Africa and Namibia.
Elegant crassula has moderate disease resistance and is more sensitive to humidity. It becomes vulnerable to disease in high-humidity conditions and is prone to root rot while dormant. In terms of care, Elegant crassula is drought-tolerant but needs increased watering during the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or halted entirely during the dormant period. Elegant crassula is appropriate for growers with some experience, but it can be challenging to care for, particularly during dormancy. It is especially suited to people who can dedicate time to its care over the winter months.
How to keep Adromischus Filicaulis.
Light
Elegant crassula comes from habitats with dappled light, such as the forest understory or rocky areas that offer natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can also tolerate full sun.
Water
Proper watering for an elegant crassula plant depends on the environmental conditions and the plant's state. During dormancy, reduce watering to every one to two weeks and avoid watering during periods of high heat. Watch for signs of thirst in the leaves and check the soil's moisture levels. The type of pot you use also affects how often you should water, as breathable pots tend to retain less water.
Temperature
Elegant crassula tolerates some heat, but it mainly does best in cooler seasons and becomes dormant in summer. In hot summer conditions, provide shade to avoid scorching from intense sunlight. Watering should be cut back or stopped during the hottest season to prevent root rot. Elegant crassula grows vigorously in winter and spring, and so long as temperatures do not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
Elegant crassula only needs light fertilizer applications once or twice a year during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter and in summer when it is dormant. Cut back on fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before applying any. Fertilizing promotes healthy growth and encourages blooms.
Pruning
To keep an elegant crassula healthy and thriving, it's important to prune it properly in early spring. Use sterile tools to make clean cuts, as this promotes growth, enhances its appearance, and helps prevent disease. Be careful not to over-prune, as the plant needs enough foliage for photosynthesis. Regular monitoring and minimal trimming are essential to maintain a healthy plant.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Elegant crassula, choose a pot slightly larger than the current one that provides good drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Gently remove the plant from its old container, brush off excess soil, and replant it at the same depth. Wait a few days before watering to allow any root damage to heal. Repot in spring or fall and place it in a brightly lit spot.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Adromischus
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-13
- Mature Height
- 36 cm
- Mature Spread
- 15 cm to 20 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Red, Silver
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White, Pink
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall