Crassula spathulata (Spathula-leaf Crassula) is a creeping, succulent ground-cover, indigenous to the Eastern Cape Province and southern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, where it is found in leaf-litter on rocky ridges, often around the edges of forests. It is common as a ground-cover in cultivation, and several different cultivars are in circulation.
Spathula-leaf crassula shows moderate disease resistance and is more sensitive to atmospheric humidity. It becomes vulnerable to disease in high-humidity conditions and is prone to root rot while dormant. For care, Spathula-leaf crassula is drought-tolerant but requires increased watering during the active growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Spathula-leaf crassula is suited to growers with some experience, as it can be challenging to care for, particularly during dormancy. It is especially appropriate for those who can devote time to its care through the winter months.
How to keep Crassula Spathulata.
Light
Spathula-leaf crassula comes from habitats with dappled light, like the understory of forests or rocky locations that provide natural shade. It prefers partial sun but is also able to tolerate full sun.
Temperature
Although Spathula-leaf crassula tolerates some heat, it does best and grows mainly in cooler periods and becomes dormant in summer. In hot summer conditions, provide shade to avoid scorching from strong sunlight. Watering should be cut back or stopped during the hottest part of the year to prevent root rot. Its most vigorous growth happens in winter and spring, and it will continue to grow steadily provided temperatures do not fall too low.
Fertilizer
Spathula-leaf crassula requires only light fertilizer applications once or twice a year during the active growing season. Do not fertilize in winter or in summer when the plant is dormant. Use less fertilizer for plants that have been repotted and wait a couple of months after repotting before feeding. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and encourages blooms.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Spathula-leaf crassula, choose a pot slightly larger than the current one with good drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Carefully remove the plant from its old pot, 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 area.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Crassula
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm to 0.76 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Fall
- Native Area
- South Africa
Other names.
