Crassula arborescens (Silver Dollar Jade)

Crassula Arborescens

Overview

Plant Type: Succulent
Family: Crassulaceae
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
Watering: Soak and dry method, every 2-3 weeks during growing season
Colors: Blue-green leaves with red edges
Size: Up to 3-4 feet tall
Hardiness Zones: 9-11
Soil Type: Well-draining succulent mix
Soil pH: 6.0-6.5
Propagation: Leaf and stem cuttings
Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets

Welcome to the world of Crassula arborescens, also known as Silver Dollar Jade. This beautiful succulent is treasured for its distinctive round, blue-green leaves with reddish edges, which resemble silver dollars. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about caring for and propagating Crassula arborescens, ensuring your succulent plant thrives for years to come.

How to Care for Crassula arborescens

Light Requirements

Crassula arborescens flourishes in bright, indirect sunlight, making it crucial to strike a balance between exposure and intensity. Morning sun from an east-facing window is ideal, as it’s less intense than afternoon sun. Alternatively, a west-facing window with a sheer curtain provides filtered light that prevents leaf scorch. If direct sunlight is unavoidable, acclimate the plant gradually, increasing sun exposure incrementally to avoid shock. Monitor your Silver Dollar Jade for signs of stress, such as yellowing, curling, or thinning leaves, and adjust its light conditions accordingly. For those with limited natural light, full-spectrum LED grow lights can help maintain the plant’s health and appearance, mimicking the sun’s natural spectrum.

Summary

Crassula arborescens needs bright, indirect sunlight from an east or west-facing window. Gradually acclimate the plant to direct sun, and consider LED grow lights if natural light is limited.

Watering Crassula arborescens

To master the “soak and dry” method for Crassula arborescens, it’s important to understand the factors that influence water retention. Factors like pot size, material, and soil composition affect how quickly the soil dries. Smaller pots dry out faster, while unglazed terracotta pots allow moisture to evaporate through their porous walls, preventing overwatering. When watering, saturate the soil until water flows from the drainage holes, then empty the saucer to avoid standing water. Use your finger to test the soil moisture, watering only when the top 1-2 inches feel dry. Keep in mind that indoor heating systems can cause the air and soil to dry more quickly in winter, so monitor your plant closely and adjust your watering schedule as needed.

Summary

Master the “soak and dry” method, accounting for factors like pot size, material, and soil composition. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry, and adjust during winter.

Soil Needs

When creating a custom soil mix for Crassula arborescens, focus on achieving a balance of drainage, aeration, and nutrient retention. A blend of one part potting soil, one part perlite or pumice, and one part coarse sand or crushed granite is a reliable option. You can also add horticultural charcoal or expanded clay pebbles for increased drainage and improved root health. To test the quality of your mix, water should flow freely through it, without pooling or clumping. If the soil retains too much water, add more perlite, pumice, or sand. Conversely, if it dries out too quickly, incorporate additional organic material or coconut coir to boost water retention.

Summary

Create a custom mix for optimal drainage, aeration, and nutrient retention. A blend of potting soil, perlite or pumice, and coarse sand works well. Adjust based on water retention properties.

Temperature and Humidity

To maintain optimal temperature and humidity for Crassula arborescens, consider its native habitat: arid South African landscapes. Recreate these conditions by avoiding temperature extremes and maintaining steady airflow. A small fan near the plant can improve air circulation, reducing the risk of pests and diseases that thrive in stagnant conditions. During winter, move your Silver Dollar Jade away from cold windows and provide a source of gentle heat if necessary. To maintain proper humidity levels, place a tray of water with pebbles near the plant, ensuring the pot doesn’t touch the water. This creates a humid microclimate around the plant, helping it thrive in dry indoor environments.

Summary

Maintain steady temperatures (65-75°F) and airflow. Use a fan, tray of water with pebbles, and gentle heat in winter to replicate the plant’s native South African habitat.

How to Propagate Crassula arborescens

Crassula Arborescens

Leaf Cuttings

Propagating Crassula arborescens through leaf cuttings requires a meticulous approach to ensure successful rooting. Choose a healthy, mature leaf, free of damage or discoloration. When removing it, hold the leaf close to the stem and gently twist in a single direction to minimize tissue damage. During the callusing period, keep the leaf in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, as this may cause it to shrivel. When placing the callused leaf on the soil, avoid burying the cut end, as this may encourage rot. Instead, lay it on the soil surface or gently press the base into the soil. Maintain consistent, light moisture without soaking the soil, as excessive water can cause the cutting to rot before it roots. Be patient and monitor the cutting for signs of new growth, such as tiny roots or baby leaves emerging.

Summary

Choose a healthy leaf, twist off gently, allow it to callus, and place it on well-draining soil. Keep the cutting moist and watch for roots and new growth.

Stem Cuttings

For successful stem propagation of Crassula arborescens, follow a few essential steps. First, choose a healthy stem with at least two pairs of leaves. Using a clean, sharp pair of pruning shears, make an angled cut just below a leaf node to promote faster rooting. Strip the lower leaves to expose the nodes, as these are the points where roots will form. During the callusing period, place the cutting in a shaded, well-ventilated spot, ensuring it remains dry and undisturbed. Once callused, plant the cutting in a small pot filled with well-draining soil mix. Gently firm the soil around the cutting to provide support, and water sparingly until established. To encourage rooting, maintain a warm environment (around 70°F or 21°C) and provide bright, indirect light.

Summary

Select a healthy stem, make an angled cut, strip lower leaves, let it callus, and plant in well-draining soil. Provide a warm environment and bright, indirect light for rooting.

Fertilizing Your Crassula arborescens

Crassula arborescens benefits from measured fertilization to support steady growth without overwhelming the plant. When selecting a fertilizer, opt for a balanced, water-soluble formulation specifically designed for succulents (ideally with a 1-1-1 or 2-2-2 NPK ratio). Diluting the fertilizer to half strength ensures that the plant receives essential nutrients without the risk of burning the roots. Apply the fertilizer during watering, allowing it to penetrate the root zone evenly. Observe the plant’s response to fertilization and adjust the frequency as needed. If the plant appears to grow too quickly or becomes “leggy,” reduce the fertilization frequency. Conversely, if growth seems sluggish or the leaves appear pale, consider increasing the frequency slightly. Always remember to cease fertilization during the winter months when the plant enters dormancy.

Summary

Fertilize sparingly with a balanced, water-soluble succulent fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply every 2-3 months and adjust frequency based on the plant’s response. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy.

Common Pests and Diseases

Crassula arborescens is relatively low-maintenance but can still be affected by pests and diseases. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

Mealybugs

Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that can infest Crassula arborescens. They feed on plant sap, causing leaves to yellow and drop. To control mealybugs, wipe affected areas with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Keep an eye on the plant for any recurring infestations.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause stippling or webbing on Crassula arborescens leaves. They thrive in dry conditions, so maintaining adequate humidity through misting can deter them. If you notice an infestation, remove affected leaves and treat the plant with a miticide or neem oil.

Root Rot

Root rot is often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Signs include yellowing leaves, a soft stem, and a foul smell from the soil. If caught early, you can save your Crassula arborescens by removing it from the soil, cutting away affected roots, and allowing it to dry before repotting in fresh, well-draining soil. Adjust your watering habits to prevent future issues.

Summary

Crassula arborescens can be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and root rot. Combat mealybugs with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap, and deter spider mites by maintaining humidity. Root rot, often caused by overwatering, can be addressed by removing affected roots and adjusting watering habits.

Where to Buy

Buy Crassula arborescens from Etsy

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