Rochea

Family. Crassulaceae.

Origin. South Africa.

Description. Rochea is a small genus consisting of 4 species of low evergreen succulent shrubs with several erect stems that become woody with age. The entire length of the stems is densely dotted with small green, smooth leaves. Some species have a bluish waxy coating on the leaves. Leaf size and shape vary greatly between species. During the flowering period, small red or pink flowers appear at the top of the stems, often collected in inflorescences - umbrellas up to 12 cm in diameter. The flowers have a pleasant aroma. There are variegated varieties of rochea, as well as varieties with white and yellow flowers.

Height. Reaches 60 cm in height.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

Feels good at normal room temperature, cool in winter, but not less than 10 ° C. If the plant overwinters in a well-lit place, it can be kept warm all year round. 

Lighting

Shade in spring and summer from the scorching rays of the sun during the day. Can receive direct sunlight in the morning and evening.

Care

A very unpretentious genus, which is afraid only of stagnant moisture. After flowering, you can cut the stems to the desired height.

Substrate

Ready-made mixture for cacti and succulents with a high content of sand or perlite. Loose, air- and moisture-permeable soil. Unlike most succulents, it requires nutritious soil. The root collar can be surrounded with a layer of fine gravel or coarse sand to improve drainage.

Feeding

In spring and summer, feed with fertilizers for succulents monthly at half the concentration.

Flowering time

Spring Summer.

Air humidity

Rochea does not require misting. It likes good air movement, but do not expose the succulent to cold drafts.

Soil moisture

During the growing season, the soil should be moist, but not swampy. The top layer of soil is dried before each subsequent watering. During the winter months, if you have allowed a cool dormant period, water very infrequently, once every 1 to 2 months. During a warm winter, reduce the frequency of watering slightly, so that the soil dries out by half between waterings. Water so that droplets of water do not fall on the stems and leaves, especially in the evening. 

Transplant

Compact varieties can be kept in one pot for several years. Mature specimens require replanting approximately every 2–3 years. After replanting, stop watering for a week.

Reproduction

Propagated by stem or leaf cuttings, which are rooted in damp sand in spring or summer. Dry the cut for a few days before planting, otherwise the cutting may rot. Stem cuttings root more easily than leaf cuttings. Young seedlings are covered with glass to maintain humidity and placed in a warm place with a temperature of about 22 °C; instead of watering, they are sprayed.

Pests and diseases

Rotting due to waterlogging, especially in autumn and winter.

Among the harmful insects, plants can be attacked by mealybugs and scale insects.

Hydroponics

Rochea grows well in hydroponics.