Moss Stonecrop
crassula tillaea
Also known as: ["Moss Crassula","Little Moss"]
Overview
A small, succulent plant with moss-like appearance, forming dense mats of tiny, fleshy leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Crassula |
| Botanical Name: | Crassula tillaea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in a sunny spot
- 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 waterlogging.
- 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 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates full sun with gradual acclimation.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to intense light to prevent scorching; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; provide shade during peak summer; avoid direct sun in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days in spring and summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy clay soils; use pots with drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; skip winter feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Let them callus for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain consistent moisture; provide gentle warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or junction; remove dead or leggy growth.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; avoid overpotting.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
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 allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Stagnant growth, leaf shriveling, and potential root rot due to cold, damp conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; provide gentle bottom heat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but carefully.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume Crassula tillaea. The toxic compounds can cause digestive upset, though severe reactions are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Crassula tillaea can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's compounds may irritate the stomach lining, causing discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrassula tillaea contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested by humans. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crassula tillaea toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Crassula tillaea?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Can Crassula tillaea grow in shade?
A: Yes, it tolerates partial to full shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in spring an |
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