Hairy Crassula
crassula pubescens
Also known as: ["Hairy Jade Plant","Velvet Crassula"]
Overview
A small, succulent plant with fleshy, hairy leaves and a compact growth habit, 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 pubescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor in a 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 waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to direct sun to avoid scorching; move indoors if outdoor temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); protect from intense afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun; provide shade during peak summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter; avoid wet leaves to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty potting 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
Ideal range 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers cooler winter dormancy.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with diluted succulent fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; 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 medium.
- Keep humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Let cuttings callus before planting; use a humidifier or plastic bag to maintain humidity; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node; pinch back tips for fuller growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushier form; prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or leggy stems; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
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; helps refresh soil and prevent root-bound issues.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh well-draining soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
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; mix in organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration in extreme heat; stunted growth or root rot in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold temperatures.
Solution: Keep in a warm, dry location; avoid overwatering; provide winter protection if outdoors.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, dehydration, or sunburn if exposed to intense heat and sun without acclimation.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid wetting leaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Crassula pubescens may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. 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 pubescens may 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 pubescens 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: Is Crassula pubescens toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Crassula pubescens?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Crassula pubescens flower?
A: Yes, it produces small, star-shaped white or pink flowers in the summer.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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