Crassula arborescens subsp. undulatifolia | Rippled Jade Tree
€15,90
🌱 Morphology
Wavy jade tree. A perennial shrubby succulent with a much more developed habit than many Crassula, capable of forming a shrub up to about 2 m tall, with thick, succulent branches that become lignified with age.
The leaves are the main differentiating character compared to Crassula arborescens subsp. arborescens. They are elliptic, lanceolate, ovate to obovate, approximately 2.5–4 × 1.2–2 cm, narrower, elongated, and noticeably less fleshy than those of the typical subspecies. They are arranged erectly on the branches and have a bluish-green or intensely glaucous surface, with a margin that can show reddish undulations.
This combination of elongated, erect leaves with wavy margins is precisely the characteristic that gives the undulatifolia subspecies its name.
🌍 Distribution, habitat, and family
Family Crassulaceae. It is a highly localized endemic of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, restricted to the southern areas of the Klein Winterhoek mountains. Kew currently recognizes Crassula arborescens subsp. undulatifolia as an accepted subspecies.
It inhabits rocky slopes and protected ravines, on soils derived from sandstones and shales, although it can also appear in stony and gravelly areas. In its natural range, it is part of communities related to fynbos and renosterveld, preferably occupying sunny and exposed places, although it also appears in valleys.
It is an extraordinarily localized plant: SANBI notes one known population in a single gorge of the Klein Winterhoek mountains and classifies it as Critically Rare in its conservation assessment.
❄️ Temperature
USDA Zone 9b–11b.
Its origin in the Eastern Cape allows it to withstand relatively low temperatures when the substrate remains dry and the roots are well-aerated. Resistance decreases considerably when low temperatures and persistent humidity coincide.
☀️ Lighting
Intense lighting is recommended, with a target of 15–25 mol·m⁻²·day⁻¹ of DLI PAR during the growth period.
High radiation promotes a compact habit, maintains the bluish tone of the leaves, and enhances the reddish coloration of their margins. In low-light conditions, stems can elongate and leaves lose color intensity.
💧 Growth cycle and watering
Winter rest Its origin in the Eastern Cape is important for correctly interpreting watering. Unlike species from the western regions of the Cape subjected to a very marked summer drought, this subspecies lives in an environment with a different climate and shows reproductive activity in mid-summer.
Therefore, it is not advisable to impose an absolute summer rest. During periods when the plant maintains active growth and temperatures are moderate, it is recommended to water abundantly and let the substrate dry completely before watering again.
During intense heatwaves, water intake should be reduced and ventilation increased, especially if growth slows down. In winter, if temperatures are low and the plant remains inactive, watering should also be spaced out considerably.
The correct pattern is, therefore, complete hydration during activity + total drying of the substrate, adjusting the frequency to the temperature and the plant's actual growth.
🌸 Flowering
It produces densely branched terminal inflorescences, slightly raised above the foliage. The flowers are star-shaped, white to pinkish, gathered in approximately spherical heads. After pollination, the flowers acquire a papery brown hue and can remain decorative for quite some time.
A particularly interesting feature of this subspecies is its flowering in the middle of the austral summer, according to Crassulaceae.ch. Under Madrid conditions, the approximate equivalent would be January-March, although the actual date will depend on the temperature and cultivation regime.
🌿 Nutrition
We recommend Desert CHOICE® Succulents, applied during periods of active growth and adjusting the frequency to the temperature and the development of the plant.
When the emergence of inflorescences approaches, it can be supplemented with Desert CHOICE® Flowering.
This is an inimitable xerophyte grown in Madrid in a technological square pot with the substrate activated with mycorrhizal fungi and biofungicides.
📏 The sizes of our basic collection xerophytes are as follows:
S -> 9cm x 9cm
M-> 14cm x 14 cm
L->16cm x 16 cm
* As this is an online purchase, the appearance of the sent specimen may vary slightly from the product image. The plant's measurements are specified in the photo description, but this may also vary slightly, because it is a living being! Each of the Desert CITY plants has unique characteristics.
- Shipped today? Order within:
- Hassle-free returns
- Free Shipping on orders over €79.99
Expert advice with every purchase
Our team provides you with personalized advice on caring for your plants and growing media.
-
Secure and protected payment guaranteed.
