Crassula falcata “Propeller Plant”
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This Crassula falcata is a pretty, low-clumping, shrubby succulent with silver gray foliage and propeller shaped, overlapping leaves. It is easy to grow and provides a spectacular flower show in late spring to early summer when the plant is covered in orange-red clusters of tiny florets which rise above the foliage on short stems. The flowers of the Crassula falcata are slightly fragrant with a cinnamon scent and attract beneficial pollinators. The flowering season lasts from one to two months.
The species epithet falcata means “shaped like a sickle” and refers to the leaf shape. It is closely related to C. perfoliata and regarded as a subspecies of it by many.
This is a stunning container plant when in bloom. It works well in mass plantings in dry borders or as an accent plant in cactus and succulent gardens. Its silver foliage contrasts nicely with dark colored plants.
Remove spent flower heads as desired to maintain vigor and bushy habit. This Crassula falcata plant benefits from light fertilization during its growing season of spring and summer. Stems can become leggy after several years of growth and should be cut and restarted.
Horticultural Data
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Names and Synonyms: Crassula perfoliata var. falcata, var. minor, Rochea falcate, Crassula johannis-winkleri, Crassula perfoliata var. falcate, Crassula perfoliata var. miniata, Crassula perfoliata var. minor, Crassula obliqua
Common Names: Airplane Plant, Propeller Plant, Scarlet Paintbrush
Family: Crassulaceae
Origin: From the Cape of Good Hope, South Africa
Size Label: 1 gallon
Height: 2′
Width: 2-3′
Cold Tolerance: 20 to 25°F, -6.7 to -3.9°C
Heat Tolerance: High heat tolerance
Light Requirement: Full sun along the coast to light shade in the hottest inland climates
Water needs: Very drought tolerant but can take irrigation in spring and summer
Maintenance: Remove spent flower heads as desired to maintain vigor and bushy habit. This plant benefits from light fertilization during its growing season of spring and summer. Stems can become leggy after several years of growth and should be cut and restarted.
Uses: This is a stunning container plant when in bloom. It works well in mass plantings in dry borders or as an accent plant in cactus and succulent gardens. Its silver foliage contrasts nicely with dark colored plants.
Propagation: This plant is easily propagated from stem or leaf cuttings during the growing season in spring or summer.
Problems: Occasional problems with pests: aphids, mealy bugs. Powdery mildew, stem and root rot if over watered. Requires well-drained soils.
Research Links:
http://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=2514
http://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/CRASSULA/Crassula_falcata/Crassula_falcata/crassula_falcata.htm
http://columbus-cactus-club.webs.com/Crassulafalcata.htm
http://www.llifle.com/Encyclopedia/SUCCULENTS/Family/Crassulaceae/11182/Crassula_falcata
Shipping & Availability
Description | Horticultural Data | Shipping & Availability | Top
There is a minimum purchase of any 4 plants for online orders. All plants shipped bare root. Other sizes may be available for pick up from our growing grounds in Fallbrook, CA. For more information, give us a call at 760-990-4762.
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