All You need to know about Crassula Obvallata

Crassula obvallata, also known as the “Rattail Crassula,” is a succulent plant species native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Crassulaceae, which includes many other popular succulent genera such as Echeveria and Sedum.

Crassula obvallata has long, slender, cylindrical leaves that are a grayish-green color and can grow up to 30cm in length.

How to grow and take care of Crassula Obvallata?

1. Light: Crassula obvallata requires bright, indirect sunlight for at least six hours a day. If you are growing it indoors, place it near a window that receives plenty of sunlight.
2. Watering: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, and then water deeply until the excess water drains out of the pot. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the roots to rot.
3. Soil: Crassula obvallata prefers well-draining soil. You can use a cactus or succulent potting mix, or make your own by mixing sand, perlite, and peat moss in equal parts.
4. Temperature: This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
5. Humidity: Crassula obvallata does not require high humidity and can tolerate dry air.
6. Fertilizer: You can fertilize Crassula obvallata once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
7. Pruning: You can prune this plant to maintain its shape or to propagate it. Simply cut off a stem or leaf and allow it to dry for a few days before planting it in soil.

By following these tips, you can successfully grow and care for Crassula obvallata.

What is the lifespan of Crassula Obvallata?

In general, Crassula Obvallata has a lifespan of around 3-5 years, but it can live longer if given optimal growing conditions and care. The lifespan of Crassula Obvallata can vary depending on the growing conditions and care provided. However, with proper care, this succulent plant can live for several years.

It is worth noting that some factors can affect the lifespan of Crassula Obvallata, including overwatering, extreme temperature changes, pests, and diseases. To ensure the longevity of this plant, it is essential to provide it with the appropriate growing conditions and to monitor it regularly for signs of stress or damage.

How to water it?

Watering is an essential aspect of caring for Crassula Obvallata, and it is crucial to get it right to prevent overwatering, which can cause root rot. Here are some tips on how to water Crassula Obvallata:

1. Water deeply: When watering, ensure that you water the soil deeply until the excess water drains out of the pot’s drainage holes. This will help ensure that the water reaches the roots and provides sufficient hydration.
2. Allow the soil to dry out: Crassula Obvallata is a drought-tolerant plant, and it prefers to be slightly dry rather than too wet. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, and only water when the top inch of the soil is dry to the touch.
3. Water sparingly in winter: During the winter months, when the plant is in its dormant phase, water sparingly, as the plant requires less water during this period.
4. Avoid getting water on the leaves: Watering the leaves of Crassula Obvallata can cause damage and lead to fungal infections. It is best to water the soil directly to avoid getting water on the leaves.
5. Use well-draining soil: To prevent overwatering, it is essential to use well-draining soil, as this will allow excess water to drain away from the roots quickly.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your Crassula Obvallata is watered correctly and stays healthy. Remember, it is better to underwater than overwater this plant, as it is more tolerant of drought than excess moisture.

How to prune it?

Pruning is an important aspect of caring for Crassula Obvallata, and it can help to maintain the plant’s shape, remove dead or damaged leaves, and promote new growth. Here are some tips on how to prune Crassula Obvallata:

1. Use sharp, clean pruning shears: Before pruning, ensure that your pruning shears are sharp and clean to avoid damaging the plant or introducing disease.
2. Remove dead or damaged leaves: Gently remove any dead or damaged leaves by snipping them off at the base of the stem. This will help to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy.
3. Prune to shape: If your Crassula Obvallata is getting too tall or leggy, you can prune it back to maintain its shape. Cut back the stems to just above a leaf node, and new growth will sprout from there.
4. Propagate with cuttings: Crassula Obvallata is easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Simply snip off a stem or leaf and allow it to dry for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil.
5. Avoid over-pruning: While pruning can be beneficial for Crassula Obvallata, it is important not to overdo it. Avoid removing too many leaves or stems at once, as this can stress the plant and make it more susceptible to disease.

By following these tips, you can successfully prune Crassula Obvallata and promote healthy growth. Remember to only prune as needed and to be gentle with the plant to avoid damaging it.

How big does Crassula Obvallata grow?

Crassula Obvallata is a small succulent plant that typically grows to a height of about 6 inches (15 cm) and spreads out to form a dense mat of foliage. The leaves of this plant are thick and oval-shaped, and they grow in a rosette pattern, with each rosette measuring around 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.

In its natural habitat, Crassula Obvallata can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall, but it typically stays smaller when grown indoors or in containers. The size of this plant can also be influenced by the growing conditions, such as the amount of light and water it receives, as well as the size of the container it is planted in.

Overall, Crassula Obvallata is a small but attractive plant that is easy to care for and perfect for small spaces or as part of a larger succulent collection.

Which soil is the best for growing it?

Crassula Obvallata thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients but does not hold onto excess moisture. Here are some tips on the best soil for growing Crassula Obvallata:

1. Use a cactus or succulent soil mix: These types of soil mixes are specially formulated to provide good drainage, which is essential for Crassula Obvallata. You can purchase pre-made mixes or create your own by combining equal parts of potting soil, sand, and perlite.
2. Add additional drainage material: To further improve drainage, you can add additional materials to the soil mix, such as coarse sand or pumice. This will help prevent water from accumulating around the roots and causing root rot.
3. Avoid heavy soils: Heavy soils that hold onto moisture can lead to overwatering and root rot. Avoid using soil mixes that contain peat moss or clay, as these tend to hold onto moisture.
4. Ensure good aeration: Crassula Obvallata roots need oxygen to grow properly, so it is essential to ensure good aeration in the soil. Adding perlite or coarse sand to the soil mix can help improve aeration.
5. pH level: Crassula Obvallata prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5.

By following these tips, you can create a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix that will help your Crassula Obvallata thrive. Remember to repot your plant every two years or when you notice it outgrowing its container.

Where can I buy it?

Crassula Obvallata is a popular succulent that can be found at many garden centers, nurseries, and online plant retailers. Here are some places where you can buy Crassula Obvallata:

1. Local garden centers and nurseries: Check with your local garden center or nursery to see if they carry Crassula Obvallata. This is a great option if you want to see the plant in person before purchasing it.
2. Online plant retailers: Many online plant retailers, such as Etsy, Amazon, and The Sill, offer Crassula Obvallata for purchase. Be sure to read reviews and check the seller’s ratings before making a purchase.
3. Succulent specialty stores: Some specialty stores that specialize in succulents and cacti may carry Crassula Obvallata. These stores may also offer a wider variety of succulent species to choose from.
4. Plant swaps and sales: You may be able to find Crassula Obvallata at local plant swaps or sales. These events are a great way to connect with other plant enthusiasts and find new additions for your collection.

No matter where you choose to buy your Crassula Obvallata, be sure to inspect the plant for signs of damage or pests before purchasing it. Additionally, ask the seller about the plant’s growing conditions and care requirements to ensure that you can provide it with the right conditions to thrive.

Summary

In this post, we discussed the care and growing requirements for Crassula Obvallata, a small succulent plant. We covered topics such as light and temperature requirements, watering needs, soil preferences, pruning techniques, and propagation methods. We also discussed where to buy Crassula Obvallata, including local garden centers, online plant retailers, succulent specialty stores, and plant swaps and sales. Overall, Crassula Obvallata is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for plant that can thrive both indoors and outdoors with the right growing conditions.

Have a nice day!