Sinocrassula

Family. Crassulaceae.

Origin. Asia.

Description. Sinocrassula is a miniature succulent subshrub that forms a very dense basal rosette of many fleshy, pointed, often rounded leaves. The color of the leaves varies from green to gray, bluish, burgundy and even orange. As the plants age, they can develop a thick trunk. During the flowering period, tall, up to 60 cm, very powerful peduncles are formed, bearing an inflorescence at the top - a branched panicle. The bush blooms very abundantly, but single white or pink flowers are very small and do not attract much attention. The buds have a rather pleasant smell.

Height. Up to 15 - 20 cm.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

During the growing season, the optimal temperature range is considered to be from 18 to 26 ° C. In winter, a dormant period is possible at a temperature of about 10 ° C, which will stimulate flowering. Cooler temperatures during the winter months can damage and even kill plants. 

Lighting

Sinocrassula prefers a brightly lit place with light shade on summer days. Direct sunlight can fall on the leaves and shoots in the morning and evening hours.

Care

A very unpretentious species that can withstand neglect. Many varieties look great in hanging baskets and are impressive when kept indoors.

Substrate

Tolerates fairly nutrient-poor soils with excellent drainage. The mixture should contain a large amount of coarse river sand. Ready-made soils for cacti and succulent plants are suitable for growing.

Feeding

Sinocrassula is fed monthly during the growth period with liquid fertilizers for cacti and succulents.

Flowering time

Spring Summer. 

Air humidity

There is no need to spray the leaves of the plant. In summer, when the air temperature is high, you can spray a little in the morning, but make sure that the water evaporates before evening. Provide the succulent with a place with sufficient air circulation without cold drafts.

Soil moisture

During the growing season from April to September, water abundantly until the earthen ball is completely soaked, but the soil should have time to dry to half its depth before the next watering. In winter, reduce the frequency of watering to a minimum. Excess moisture accumulated in the tray after watering is drained after a few minutes, preventing the water from stagnating. The plant tolerates short dry periods; wrinkled leaves will indicate the need for regular watering. 

Transplant

Transplantation is carried out in the spring, as it grows, when the roots fill the substrate. Sinocrassula has a fibrous root system and shallow bowls with large drainage holes can be used for planting.

Reproduction

Propagated by leaf or stem cuttings or division. The cut site should be dried for several days before planting. Rooting is done in damp sand under a plastic cap or glass. Young seedlings are kept at a temperature of about 23 °C; rooting of cuttings is quite easy.

Pests and diseases

Dry brown spots on leaves appear as a result of excess moisture. Plants rot relatively easily and may die if overwatered, especially in cool conditions. Also, as a result of waterlogging, the leaves can become limp and soft.

Among the harmful insects, the flower can be attacked by mealybugs, aphids, thrips, root nematodes, scale insects, and spider mites.