How to grow and care for Crassula rogersii 'Variegata'

Description

Crassula rogersii 'Variegata' is a cultivar of the Crassula rogersii succulent plant. Crassula rogersii, commonly known as the Baby Necklace Vine or Crinkle Leaf Plant, is a small, low-growing succulent native to South Africa. The 'Variegata' cultivar is known for its distinctive variegated leaves, which have patterns of different colors, often including shades of green, cream, and pink.

Crassulas are easy to grow but susceptible to mealy bugs and fungal diseases. Overwatering is sure to be fatal, as with all succulents, so err on the side of too dry rather than too wet. Never let your Crassula sit in water. If you water from beneath by letting the plant sit in a saucer of water, ensure to pour off any excess water after a few minutes.

Crassulas are generally started by division, offsets, or leaf cuttings. Plants can be easily propagated from a single leaf: sprout leaves by placing them into a succulent or cacti mix, then covering the dish until they sprout.

How to care for Crassula rogersii 'Variegata'

Light: Provide bright but indirect sunlight for the plant. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning or late afternoon, but too much intense sunlight can scorch the leaves.

Watering: Allow the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's better to underwater than overwater. Water the plant more frequently during its active growth period (spring and summer) and reduce watering during the dormant period (fall and winter).

Soil: Use a well-draining succulent or cactus mix. You can also add some perlite or sand to improve drainage.

Temperature: Crassula rogersii prefers average room temperatures, around 65-75°F (18-24°C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it's sensitive to frost and should be protected from freezing temperatures.

Humidity: This succulent doesn't require high humidity and can do well in the typical indoor humidity levels.

Fertilizing: Feed the plant with a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) about once a month. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period.

Pruning: Prune the plant if it becomes leggy or stretched out. You can cut back the stems to encourage a bushier growth.

Propagation: Crassula rogersii 'Variegata' can be propagated through stem or leaf cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus for a day or two before planting them in well-draining soil.