Crassula ‘Pangolin’ is a captivating succulent that exhibits a leisurely growth rate. Its name pays homage to the pangolin, a unique creature known for its scaly exterior and diet of ants and termites.
The foliage of this plant mimics the appearance and arrangement of this fascinating animal. The shoots of the Crassula ‘Pangolin’ can reach a width of up to 2 inches (5 cm).
How to grow and take care of Crassula pangolin?
Crassula pangolin, also known as the “Pangolin plant,” is a unique and interesting succulent that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to grow and take care of this plant:
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix specifically designed for succulents or cacti. Make sure the soil is slightly acidic and has a pH of around 6.0.
- Light: Crassula pangolin requires bright, indirect sunlight. Place the plant near a sunny window or outdoors in a partially shaded area.
- Watering: Water the plant thoroughly and then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to be careful not to water too frequently.
- Fertilizer: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a succulent-specific fertilizer.
- Temperature: Crassula pangolin prefers moderate temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Pruning: Prune the plant as needed to maintain its shape and size.
- Propagation: Propagate the plant by taking stem cuttings and allowing them to dry out for a few days before planting them in a well-draining soil mix.
- Pests and Diseases: Watch for common succulent pests like mealybugs and spider mites. Also, be aware of signs of disease like yellowing leaves or wilting, which could indicate overwatering or root rot.
Overall, Crassula pangolin is a hardy and low-maintenance plant that is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for an interesting and unusual addition to their succulent collection.
What is the lifespan of Crassula pangolin?
Some reports suggest that Crassula pangolin can live for up to 20 years. The lifespan of Crassula pangolin can vary depending on various factors such as growing conditions, care, and environment. However, with proper care, this plant can live for several years and even up to a decade or more.
It’s important to note that the plant’s growth rate may slow down as it ages, and it may require less frequent watering and fertilization. With proper care and maintenance, Crassula pangolin can be a long-lived and beautiful addition to your indoor or outdoor garden.
How to water it?
When it comes to watering Crassula pangolin, it’s important to strike a balance between providing enough moisture and avoiding overwatering. Here are some tips on how to water this plant:
- Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering. Crassula pangolin is a succulent plant that can store water in its leaves and stem, so it can tolerate some degree of drought.
- Water deeply, but infrequently. When it’s time to water, give the plant a thorough soak, allowing the water to drain completely from the pot’s drainage holes.
- Avoid getting water on the leaves or stem. Direct water contact can increase the risk of rot and other fungal diseases. Instead, water the soil around the plant’s base.
- Adjust watering frequency based on environmental factors. The frequency of watering will depend on factors such as the season, temperature, humidity, and amount of light the plant receives. In general, Crassula pangolin needs less water during the dormant period in winter.
- Use room temperature water. Avoid using cold water, as it can shock the plant’s roots.
Remember that overwatering can be more detrimental to Crassula pangolin than underwatering. If the soil is consistently wet, the roots can become waterlogged and prone to rot. As a general rule, it’s better to underwater than overwater this plant.
How to prune it?
Pruning Crassula pangolin is a straightforward process that can help to keep the plant healthy and maintain its shape. Here are some tips on how to prune this succulent:
- Use clean, sharp pruning shears. This will help to minimize damage to the plant and reduce the risk of introducing infections or diseases.
- Prune in the spring or early summer. This is the best time to prune Crassula pangolin, as the plant is actively growing and can recover more quickly.
- Identify the areas to be pruned. Look for stems or leaves that are damaged, diseased, or overgrown. You can also prune to shape the plant or control its size.
- Cut just above a leaf node. When pruning stems, make a clean cut just above a leaf node (where a leaf attaches to the stem). This will encourage new growth to sprout from that point.
- Remove damaged or diseased leaves. If you notice leaves that are yellowing, brown, or wilted, remove them to prevent the spread of disease.
- Allow time for the plant to recover. After pruning, it’s normal for Crassula pangolin to look a bit sparse or bare. Give the plant time to recover and put out new growth.
Remember that Crassula pangolin is a slow-growing plant, so it’s important not to prune too much at once. Gradual, minimal pruning is often the best approach. With proper care and pruning, your Crassula pangolin can stay healthy and beautiful for years to come.
How big does Crassula pangolin grow?
Crassula pangolin is a slow-growing succulent that typically reaches a height of 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) and a spread of 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm). However, the plant’s size can vary depending on growing conditions, care, and environment.
In general, Crassula pangolin grows in a rosette shape, with tightly packed leaves that give it a distinctive, textured appearance. The leaves are usually green, gray-green, or bluish-green and have a slightly pointed tip. The stem of the plant is short and woody, and it may become visible as the plant matures.
With proper care, Crassula pangolin can live for several years and even up to a decade or more. While it may not grow as large as some other succulents, it’s a beautiful and unique plant that can add interest and texture to your indoor or outdoor garden.
Which soil is the best for growing it?
Crassula pangolin prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A good soil mix for this plant should provide good drainage to prevent waterlogging and root rot, while also retaining enough moisture to keep the plant healthy. Here are some tips on how to create a suitable soil mix for Crassula pangolin:
- Use a commercial cactus or succulent potting mix. These mixes are specially formulated to provide the fast drainage and nutrient balance that succulents like Crassula pangolin need.
- Add perlite or coarse sand to the mix. This can help to improve drainage and prevent soil compaction.
- Mix in organic matter such as compost or peat moss. This can help to improve the soil’s fertility and moisture retention.
- Avoid using heavy or water-retentive soils. These can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
- Consider adding a layer of gravel or small stones to the bottom of the pot. This can help to improve drainage and prevent water from sitting in the pot’s bottom.
Remember to choose a pot that has drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away. Avoid using saucers or trays under the pot that can collect standing water, as this can lead to root rot. With the right soil mix and potting setup, your Crassula pangolin can thrive and grow to its full potential.
Where can I buy it?
Crassula pangolin can be purchased from a variety of sources, including local nurseries, garden centers, and online retailers. Here are some places where you can buy this succulent:
- Local nurseries and garden centers: Check your local plant nurseries and garden centers to see if they carry Crassula pangolin. They may also be able to order it for you if it’s not currently in stock.
- Online plant retailers: There are many online retailers that specialize in succulents and other plants. Some popular options include Etsy, Amazon, and The Succulent Source.
- Online plant communities: Joining online plant communities such as Facebook groups or Reddit communities can be a great way to connect with other plant enthusiasts and find sources for rare or hard-to-find plants, including Crassula pangolin.
- Specialty succulent nurseries: Some nurseries specialize in growing and selling succulent plants. These nurseries may have a wider selection of Crassula pangolin and other unique succulent varieties.
When purchasing Crassula pangolin, be sure to choose a healthy plant with no signs of disease or damage. Look for a plant with plump, firm leaves and a sturdy stem. With proper care, your Crassula pangolin can thrive and become a beautiful addition to your plant collection.
Summary
In this post, we discussed the Crassula pangolin succulent, including its care and maintenance requirements. We covered topics such as the plant’s ideal growing conditions, watering needs, pruning methods, soil requirements, and lifespan. Additionally, we discussed where to purchase Crassula pangolin plants, including local nurseries, online retailers, and specialty succulent nurseries. Overall, this chat provided a comprehensive overview of Crassula pangolin and its care, making it a useful resource for anyone interested in growing this unique and beautiful succulent.
Have a nice day!