Tacitus

Family. Crassulaceae.

Origin. Mexico.

Description. Tacitus are miniature, attractive succulent plants. The leaves are collected in a flattened basal rosette, triangular with sharp tips, grayish-green in color, sometimes with a pink border along the edges. The diameter of the rosettes is 10 cm. Adult plants form a short stem with age. During the flowering period, tall, thin peduncles appear in the center of the rosette, which bear several charming flowers. The flowers are pink or red, with 5 petals, up to 2.5 cm in diameter.

Height. The leaf rosette does not exceed 15 cm.

Home care

Temperature conditions

During the growing season, the optimal temperature range is from 18 to 26 ° C. In winter, a dormant period is possible at a temperature of about 10 ° C, which will stimulate flowering. 

Lighting

Plants prefer a brightly lit location with light shade on summer days. Direct sunlight can hit the plant in the morning and evening hours. Tacitus can be grown in light shade.

Care

The flower is very unpretentious and can easily withstand neglect.

Substrate

It grows successfully even in nutrient-poor soils with excellent drainage. The mixture should contain a large amount of coarse river sand. Ready-made soils for cacti and succulents are suitable for growing.

Feeding

Monthly, during the growth period, with liquid fertilizers for cacti and succulents in half the concentration. In autumn and winter, fertilizing is not carried out.

Flowering time

Summer, the flowering period is long and can be 1 - 1.5 months. 

Air humidity

There is no need to spray the leaves of the plant. Give tacitus a place where there is sufficient air circulation without cold drafts. In autumn and winter, the air around the plant should remain dry.

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. Shriveled leaves will indicate the need for regular watering. Bottom watering is desirable. 

Transplant

Transplant in spring, as it grows, when the roots fill the substrate. For planting, use shallow bowls with large drainage holes.

Reproduction

Propagated by seeds or vegetatively - leaf cuttings. The bases of leaf cuttings are dried for several days before planting. Root in peat with sand. 

Pests and diseases

Dry brown spots on the leaves appear as a result of excess moisture, especially in the autumn-winter period. Plants rot relatively easily and may die. Also, as a result of waterlogging, the leaves can become limp and soft.

Among the harmful insects, spider mites may appear.