Crassula streyi ‘Tölken’ | Pondoland cliff Crassula
€7,95
🌱 Morphology
Perennial succulent plant, relatively slow-growing, with erect stems that may later recline or sprawl, reaching approximately 25–35 cm. The lax stems can produce roots upon contact with the substrate. The leaves are thick, fleshy, and opposite, with the base partially clasping the stem. The upper surface is dark green, often marked with white patterns or lines following the veins, while the underside can take on a characteristic purple to dark maroon coloration. The leaves progressively elongate as the plant matures.
🌍 Distribution, habitat, and family
Crassulaceae family. It is a species endemic to South Africa, restricted to a small coastal strip from Oribi Gorge, in KwaZulu-Natal, to the Mkambati Nature Reserve, in Pondoland (Eastern Cape). It grows on sandstone ledges and cliffs, generally in deep shade within coastal scarp forests, at altitudes between approximately 200 and 600 m. Its habitat is very specific, and known populations are scarce.
❄️ Temperature
USDA Zone 9b–11b. It originates from a relatively warm, subtropical coastal environment, so it tolerates mild temperatures better than intense cold. It is recommended to protect it from frost and keep it dry when temperatures are low.
☀️ Lighting
Its natural habitat is key to its cultivation: it does not require intense direct sun. Filtered light or bright shade is recommended, with a target of 10–18 mol·m⁻²·day⁻¹ of PAR DLI. Excessively intense light, especially combined with high temperatures, can cause stress and the loss of the natural leaf coloration. Good indirect lighting helps maintain compact growth and leaf markings.
💧 Growth cycle and watering
Opportunistic. Its origin in subtropical coastal forests and its habitat on sandstone cliffs indicate a much more flexible cycle than that of the Crassula species from the arid zones of the Karoo. It can remain active for much of the year when temperatures are moderate and periodic moisture is available. During active growth, it is recommended to water thoroughly and allow the substrate to dry out completely before the next watering. During periods of extreme heat or cold, watering should be spaced out, avoiding both waterlogging and keeping the substrate constantly moist.
🌸 Flowering
It produces long terminal peduncles that branch extensively, forming lax inflorescences. The flowers are small, star-shaped, and greenish-yellow, with a slight reddish hue on some floral structures. In its natural range, flowering has been recorded mainly between March and June. In Madrid, it can be expected approximately between September and January, although the timing may vary depending on cultivation conditions.
🌿 Nutrition
During the active growth period, Desert CHOICE® Succulents is recommended, applied after watering and always respecting the complete drying of the substrate. Before flowering, Desert CHOICE® Flowering can be used.
This is an inimitable xerophyte grown in Madrid in a high-tech square pot with substrate activated by mycorrhizal fungi.
Plant in a 9x9 cm pot
- 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.
