Crassula arborescens is a succulent plant perfect for any home because of its easy care. Learn all about Crassula arborescens in this article.
Characteristics of Crassula arborescens
Crassula arborescens is a succulent plant native to South Africa, specifically the Western Cape Province, although today it can be found in homes all over the world.
It is a shrubby plant that can reach a meter and a half in height with fleshy stems up to 20 centimeters thick at the base.
The slightly oval-shaped leaves have a grayish-green color accompanied by reddish touches at the ends. Sometimes they even develop small specks all over the surface.
Flower of Silver Jade Plant
This plant blooms in winter giving it a very showy appearance.
The flowers are composed of 5 sepals and star-shaped petals of white color, often with pinkish shades.
Crassula arborescens Care
Like the rest of the family, Crassula arborescens is very easy to care for.
To begin with, the arborescens require a well-drained substrate with little organic matter. A special substrate for succulents with gravel is perfect.
It is a hardy plant that withstands dry and hot climates, even short periods of freezing temperatures.
The important thing is that during the winter it is in a dry environment to prevent it from rotting.
If you want your arborescens to grow strong and healthy, you only have to follow this care:
Watering: Light watering without puddling. The substrate should always dry completely before watering again.
Humidity: Excessive humidity causes the plant to rot, especially in cold seasons.
Light: Direct sunlight at least 4/6 hours a day.
How to Propagate Crassula arborescens
Crassula arborescens propagate using a stem or leaf cutting.
In the wild, the stems and leaves usually detach themselves and a few weeks later begin to form new plants.
To propagate Crassula arborescens at home, you can take a stem cutting or a leaf-cutting using a sharp knife and cutting flush.
It is advisable to wait for the cutting to dry for a few days to form a callus at the cutting site. This prevents it from absorbing too much water and rotting.
Prepare the substrate with good drainage and once the cutting is dry, place it so that the callus remains on the substrate without burying it. The easiest way is to help yourself with some gravel or simply support it on the side of the pot.
Once planted, water lightly and only water again when the substrate is completely dry.
Since arborescens is a fast-growing plant, you will start to see buds in a few weeks.
Silver Jade Plant as a Bonsai Tree
Crassula arborescens have thick stems that make them very attractive to bonsai lovers.
Also, because of its easy care and resistance, the crassula family is always recommended to beginners in the world of bonsai.