Ming Jade, Pine Jade
crassula tetragona
Also known as: ["Ming Jade","Pine Jade","Miniature Pine Tree"]
Overview
A succulent plant with upright, cylindrical leaves resembling pine needles, native to South Africa.
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 tetragona |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor rock garden in a sunny spot
- 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 mix like cactus or succulent soil with added perlite or sand.
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 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 6–8 hours/day; can tolerate full sun with gradual acclimation.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to full sun slowly over weeks; protect from intense midday sun; adjust indoor placement to avoid scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer; avoid direct sun in winter if indoors.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water less in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel if needed.
Temperature
Ideal 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–90°F (10–32°C); prefers cooler winters.
Avoid drafts; keep away from heating/cooling vents; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, diluted fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to avoid burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings (less common for this species).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Let callus form.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (60–70%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite/sand mix.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Let cuttings dry for a day before planting; keep soil lightly moist; use a humidity dome if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to maintain shape; encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prevents root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; use a cactus mix as base.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or brown leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root rot if soil stays wet; leaves may turn purple or black.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; use a heat mat if needed.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or sunburn; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Crassula tetragona. The oxalates present can cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Crassula tetragona can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of oxalates. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrassula tetragona contains small amounts of oxalates which can cause mild irritation and discomfort if ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Crassula tetragona?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Crassula tetragona need direct sunlight?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in cooler climates.
Q: Can Crassula tetragona be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for indoor cultivation, provided it receives adequate light and proper drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
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