Humbert's Crassula
crassula humbertii
Also known as: ["Humbert's Jade"]
Overview
A small, succulent plant with fleshy, green leaves and a compact growth habit, native to Madagascar.
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 humbertii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered, 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 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 or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, removing only dead or overgrown stems.
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; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water less in winter.
Soil
well-draining succulent or cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for aesthetics.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers cooler temperatures (50–55°F or 10–13°C) in winter for dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; ensure winter dormancy.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with diluted succulent fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally.
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 medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering cuttings; maintain humidity with a plastic bag if needed.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to maintain compact shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active 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, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; ensures fresh soil and prevents overcrowding.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging, preferably in the morning.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing to every 3–4 weeks in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing/browning) due to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to frost damage below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Protect from drafts; move indoors before frost; maintain consistent temperatures above 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, dehydration, and stunted growth in temperatures above 90°F (32°C).
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 dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCrassula humbertii can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in cats if ingested. The plant is not highly toxic but can lead to mild discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Crassula humbertii by dogs 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 humbertii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested by humans. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be uncomfortable.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crassula humbertii toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Crassula humbertii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Crassula humbertii flower?
A: It can produce small, star-shaped white or pink flowers under the right conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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