Yunnan Sinocrassula
sinocrassula yunnanensis
Also known as: ["Yunnan Stonecrop"]
Overview
A small, succulent plant native to Yunnan, China, with rosettes of fleshy, green leaves and occasional pinkish-white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Sinocrassula |
| Botanical Name: | Sinocrassula yunnanensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near east-facing windows. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust frequency with seasons.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures down to 40°F (4°C) but thrives in moderate warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep lightly moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, propagation medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use bottom heat for faster rooting; maintain humidity with a cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems; pinch tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or leggy growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season; avoid wet foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture without saturating. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to match dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; move to a warmer location; avoid overwatering during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots due to excessive heat and dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; rinse soil occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSinocrassula yunnanensis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases or studies indicating adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicSinocrassula yunnanensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases or studies indicating adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicSinocrassula yunnanensis is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though no specific studies have been conducted to confirm its complete non-toxicity.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sinocrassula yunnanensis?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent rot.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Sinocrassula yunnanensis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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