Pigface Crassula
crassula streyi
Also known as: ["Pigface Crassula","Streyi Crassula"]
Overview
A succulent plant with fleshy, green leaves and small, star-shaped flowers, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Crassula |
| Botanical Name: | Crassula streyi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect 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 waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or coarse 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; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
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 to prevent scorching; place in a south-facing window with sheer curtains indoors; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining succulent mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; refresh soil every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warm, stable conditions; reduce watering in cooler months.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and 50–60% humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use bottom heat for faster rooting; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove dead or damaged growth entirely.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, dead leaves, and spent stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in spring/summer; remove dead growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply until runoff; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture without wetting the leaves; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry by evening.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration in extreme cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering; avoid drafty areas.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to water loss and heat stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
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
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Crassula streyi. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects, requiring prompt veterinary care.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Crassula streyi can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic effects due to the presence of toxic compounds. The plant can cause mild to moderate toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrassula streyi 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 streyi toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Crassula streyi?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Crassula streyi need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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