Crassula muscosa, commonly known as the ‘Watch Chain Crassula,’ is a unique and attractive succulent that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. This species of succulent is native to South Africa and is known for its cascading chain-like growth pattern, which gives it the name ‘Watch Chain.’ In this blog post, we will discuss in detail the growth, care, and propagation of Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain’.
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Description and Appearance
Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain is a small succulent plant that usually grows up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall and 12 inches (30 cm) wide. It has a branching and spreading growth habit, which produces long chains of small green leaves that resemble beads on a string. The leaves are triangular, about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) long and 0.3 inches (0.8 cm) wide, and are covered with fine white hairs. When exposed to bright sunlight, the leaves of Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chaina turn reddish-brown at the tips, adding to the succulent’s overall appeal.
Growth and Care
Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain is an easy-to-grow succulent that thrives in a well-draining soil mix and requires minimal care. Here are some growth and care tips for the Watch Chain Crassula:
Lighting
Proper lighting is an essential aspect of growing and caring for Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain’. This succulent prefers to be placed in a bright location that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight a day. Bright light or filtered sunlight provides Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain’ with the energy it needs to photosynthesize and grow. However, it is important to note that the succulent should not be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Direct sunlight can cause the leaves of Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain’ to burn and turn brown, a condition commonly referred to as sunburn. Sunburn is characterized by brown or yellow spots on the leaves, and if left unchecked, it can lead to the death of the succulent. To avoid sunburn, it is recommended to place Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain’ in an area that receives indirect sunlight, such as near a window with a sheer curtain.
Another way to protect Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain’ from direct sunlight is by using a shade cloth or other types of shade covers. Shade cloths help to filter the intensity of the sunlight, preventing the succulent from being exposed to harmful rays. During the hot summer months, when the sun’s intensity is high, it is essential to use shade cloths to protect the succulent from sunburn.
Lighting needs of Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain’ can vary depending on the time of year and the succulent’s location. During the winter months, when the sunlight is weaker, it may be necessary to move the succulent closer to a window or to supplement its lighting with grow lights. In contrast, during the summer months, Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain’ may benefit from being moved to a shadier location to avoid overexposure to direct sunlight.
Watering
Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain’ should be watered only when the soil is completely dry. It is recommended to water the succulent thoroughly, ensuring that the water reaches the roots. After watering, allow the soil to drain completely and remove any excess water that may have collected in the saucer or pot’s bottom.
It is essential to avoid leaving the succulent in standing water, as this can lead to the roots’ saturation and eventual rot. A well-draining potting mix can help to prevent water from accumulating in the soil and promote healthy root growth.
The watering needs of Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain’ can vary depending on several factors, including the succulent’s size, location, and the temperature and humidity of the environment. During the summer months, when the temperature is high and the air is dry, the succulent may require more frequent watering. In contrast, during the winter months, when the temperature is lower and the air is moister, the succulent may require less water.
Watch Chain Crassula can go for extended periods without water, making it an ideal choice for busy gardeners or those who may forget to water their plants regularly. As such, it is essential to avoid overwatering the succulent and let the soil dry out completely before watering it again.
Soil
A recommended soil mix for Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain’ is a combination of cactus soil and perlite or sand. The cactus soil provides the succulent with the necessary nutrients and organic matter it needs to thrive, while the perlite or sand helps to promote soil drainage.
Cactus soil is a soil mix designed specifically for succulents and cacti. It is formulated to provide excellent drainage and contains a high proportion of sand and other inorganic materials, which help to prevent water retention. You can always mix your own soil and amendments based on personal preference.
Temperature
Watch Chain Crassula thrives in moderate temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). This succulent is not frost-tolerant, and it is best to keep it away from freezing temperatures, which can damage or kill the plant. If you live in an area with colder temperatures, it is best to grow the succulent indoors or in a greenhouse.
In terms of hardiness zones, the Watch Chain Crassula is generally recommended for USDA hardiness zones 9b-11. These zones have an average minimum temperature range of 25-45°F (-3.9 to 7.2°C) and are suitable for growing a wide variety of succulents, including the Watch Chain Crassula.
If you live in a colder climate and still want to grow this succulent, you can consider growing it in a container indoors. Indoor growing allows you to control the succulent’s growing environment, including the temperature and light exposure, to ensure that it receives the ideal conditions for growth.
Propagation
Propagating the Watch Chain Crassula is a simple process that can be done through stem cuttings. Here are some steps to propagate the Watch Chain Crassula:
Step 1: Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and cut it using a sharp, sterilized knife.
Step 2: Let the cutting dry in a shaded area for a few days to allow the cut to callus.
Step 3: Once the cutting has callused, place it in well-draining soil mix, burying the lower end of the cutting about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) deep.
Step 4: Water the soil sparingly and keep the cutting in a shaded area to prevent sunburn.
Step 5: After a few weeks, the cutting should root and begin to grow.
Growing Season:
Winter
Dormant Season:
Summer
- Hardy to USDA Zone: 9a
- Size: Up to 12" tall and 12" wide
- Foliage: Green
- Flower: Pale yellowish-green
- Propagation: Stem cuttings
- Light: Dappled sun, bright shade
- Water: Drench & Dry
- Soil: Gritty, mostly inorganic, quickly draining
- Origin: South Africa
There is also a variegated variety of Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain Crassula’ which is becoming increasingly more common to buy in garden centers.
Crassula muscosa ‘Watch Chain Crassula’ is a great filler in succulent arrangements and looks great in a rock garden. ‘Watch Chain’ succulents propagate very easily by taking cuttings during the growing season. Be sure to use sharp, sterile scissors when propagating your Crassula muscosa. You can just stick the ends into dry succulent soil straight away. Leave them alone until they root and then you can start watering them.
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Crassula muscosa is sometimes also called Crassula lycopodiodes and it blooms between spring and summer with tiny yellow-green flowers.
It is so cute in fairy gardens because of its small, delicate features.
Quick question: Should you mist succulents? Find that answer here.
Crassula Succulents: The Ultimate Guide
Succulents are a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardening, due to their minimal care requirements and unique appearance. One of the most diverse and popular types of succulents is the crassula.
Crassula, also known as Jade Plants, are a type of succulent that is native to South Africa. They have been formally described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753 with 10 species. The name crassula comes from the Latin adjective “crassus”, meaning thick, referring to the thickening of the succulent leaves.
Crassula are popular for their great diversity of forms and colors. They are a truly no-fuss plant, and can grow well indoors and require minimal water. They are a fantastic choice for beginning succulent growers and anyone who wants to grow succulents indoors.
Characteristics
Physical Characteristics
Crassula come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The two main forms are the shrubby Jades with round, glossy leaves and the long-stemmed, trailing varieties with thin, symmetrically stacked leaves. Potted and pruned, Crassula can stay under 3 inches, but outdoors, Jade Plants can grow into large shrubs up to 6 feet tall.
Crassula also come in many shades of green, some with color accents on their leaf tips. Red, orange, and yellow accents can flush brighter with periods of stress from direct sun, cold temperatures, or restricted water.
The foliage of crassula is also diverse, with a variety of fleshy leaf shapes, including those resembling paddles, pagodas, straws, and propellers.
Crassula also have small, white to pink bloom clusters that are generally considered unremarkable. Some “stacked” Crassula species are monocarpic and will only bloom at the end of their lives after many years of growth.
Environmental Preferences
Crassula prefer indirect sunlight, which can be found in most rooms. However, if you have colorful varieties, they need to be near a sunny window or under a grow light to show vibrant red and yellow pigments. For outdoor plantings, pick partial sun locations with shade protection on hot afternoons.
Crassula also need well-draining soil like a cactus/succulent potting mix. To make your own, mix 1 part potting soil, 1 part perlite, and 1 part coarse sand. Fertilizer is not required, but 2-3 applications of balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer can encourage growth.
Crassula require minimal water, only water when soil is fully dry, then drench thoroughly. Depending on soil type, container size, and climate, watering frequency can vary from 2-8 times a month.
Most Crassula only tolerate a brief, light frost; outdoor planting is restricted to zones 9 and 10.
Types of Crassula Succulents
There are many different types of crassula succulents, including common and less common varieties.
Common Types
Crassula ovata (Jade Plant)
Crassula arborescens (Silver Dollar Plant)
Crassula tetragona (Mini Pine Tree)
Less Common Types
Crassula rupestris (String of Buttons)
Crassula perforata (String of Nickels)
Crassula falcata (Propeller Plant)
Care and Maintenance
Propagation
Repotting
Repotting should be done when the plant has outgrown its current container or when the soil has broken down and is no longer providing proper drainage. Gently remove the plant from its current container and loosen any tangled roots. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as cactus/succulent mix, and plant the crassula at the same level it was previously planted. Water thoroughly after repotting.
Pest and Disease Control
Common pests that can affect crassula plants include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Regularly inspecting the plant for pests and treating them immediately with an appropriate pesticide can prevent infestations. Avoid over-watering and providing proper drainage can also prevent issues with pests and diseases.
Conclusion
Crassula succulents are a versatile and easy-to-care-for addition to any collection. With a wide variety of forms and colors, they can be used in a variety of ways, such as indoor bonsai plants or outdoor landscaping plants.
Crassula plants are very forgiving growers, but they will rot if left in standing water. Always err on the side of heavier and less frequent watering and enjoy watching the plants shrink as they dry and swell when re-hydrated.
Remember to provide proper light, well-draining soil, and minimal watering. Regular inspection and treatment for pests can also help ensure healthy growth.
Where to Buy Succulents Online
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