Baby Necklace
crassula rupestris
Also known as: ["Rope Plant","String of Buttons"]
Overview
A small succulent with stacked, fleshy leaves arranged in spirals along trailing stems.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Crassula |
| Botanical Name: | Crassula rupestris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or pumice.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near east-facing windows. Outdoors, provide filtered light or partial shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–75°F (18–24°C). Tolerates 50–90°F (10–32°C). Avoid frost; prefers cooler winters (50–55°F/10–13°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity (60–70%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and succulent/cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering cuttings; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, dead leaves, and spent stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; dispose of clippings; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 5-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; water sparingly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting soil to enhance drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or blackened stems.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wrinkle or shrivel; growth halts; risk of frost damage below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or sunburn; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening; ensure good airflow.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding; flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal issues if they ingest parts of Crassula rupestris. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Crassula rupestris can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrassula rupestris contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested by humans. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Crassula rupestris?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Crassula rupestris flower?
A: Yes, it produces small, star-shaped pink or white flowers in late winter or early spring.
Q: Can Crassula rupestris be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, indirect light indoors and requires minimal care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
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