Crassula Mesembryanthemoides
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Crassula Mesembryanthemoides

Cats tongue

Tier 2 Difficulty: hard Water: low Light: full_sun Toxicity: low
Water every
7 days
Temperature
20–37 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 9–12
Click count
209
0

Description

Source: leafsnap

Crassula mesembryanthemoides, also known as the Red Pagoda or Red Crassula, is a striking succulent plant from the Crassulaceae family. Native to South Africa, this plant is distinguished by its stacked, triangular leaves that grow in opposite pairs along the stem, creating a pagoda-like structure. The fleshy leaves of the Red Pagoda feature bright red tips, a color that becomes even more vibrant when exposed to direct sunlight. The stem can grow up to 30 cm in height and produces small white flowers during the summer. This succulent is known for being easy to care for, requiring minimal watering and able to thrive in various light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil with good airflow around its roots. Crassula mesembryanthemoides has gained popularity among gardeners due to its unique appearance, low maintenance needs, and versatility in both indoor and outdoor settings. Whether placed in rock gardens or container gardens, its vivid red coloration adds visual interest to any space.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days

Crassula mesembryanthemoides needs careful watering that depends on the environmental conditions. During its dormancy period, reduce watering to once every 1-2 weeks. In the summer, it's best to water the plant in the evening. Pay attention to the plant's symptoms to gauge its water needs. Also, check the soil moisture and the type of pot to decide how often to water.

Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
☀️ Light Full sun

Crassula mesembryanthemoides, a plant indigenous to dry areas, flourishes under direct sunlight, as its natural habitat comprises of intense sunlight and scarce shade. It also tolerates semi-shaded conditions, demonstrating some flexibility in its growth patterns.

Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C

Crassula mesembryanthemoides can tolerate some warmth, but it primarily flourishes and develops during the cooler seasons, becoming inactive in the summer. In periods of high summer heat, it is crucial to offer shade to shield it from burning sunlight. During the hottest times, watering should be decreased or stopped to avoid root decay. The periods of vibrant growth for Crassula mesembryanthemoides are during the winter and spring seasons. Provided the temperature stays above a certain point, its growth will remain steady.

Ideal temperature: 20–37.8°C
💨 Humidity normal (40-60%)

This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.

Humidity: normal (40-60%)
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

For the Crassula mesembryanthemoides, small amounts of fertilizer applied 1-2 times annually during the growth period are adequate. Avoid providing fertilizer during winter and summer when it is in a dormant state. Cut back on the amount of fertilizer for plants that have been repotted, and delay fertilizing for a few months post-repotting. Fertilization promotes robust growth and stimulates flowering.

🪴 Pot & Repot Every 2 years

When you're transplanting Crassula mesembryanthemoides, opt for a container somewhat bigger than the present one and ensure it has proper drainage. Utilize a course, free-draining succulent or cactus mixture. Gently dislodge the plant from its previous pot, shake off surplus dirt, and replant it at an identical depth. Hold off watering for several days to let potential root harm recover. Do the repotting in the spring or autumn, and locate it in an area with abundant light.

Suggested frequency: Every 2 years
✂️ Pruning

To keep the shape of Crassula mesembryanthemoides well-maintained, prune any unnecessary or dense branches during the spring and autumn. You can use tools like knives and scissors for this task. If you wish to propagate the plant, cut stems with 5 to 6 leaves. Apply sulfur powder to the wounds, and plant them after they have healed. Make sure the soil is lightly moistened when you plant them.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Crassula mesembryanthemoides, like many other Crassulas, is non-toxic to both humans and animals. This lovely, fluffy plant is safe to have near children and dogs.

Characteristics

Plant Type
Succulent, Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Hardiness Zone
9-11
Mature Height
15 cm to 30 cm
Mature Spread
20 cm to 40 cm
Leaf Color
Light Green, Pale Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Size
0.51 cm to 0.76 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
Planting Time
Spring
Harvest Time
Summer
Native Area
South Africa

Tags (16)

Common Names (1)

en Cats tongue