Curly Succulent: A Unique Addition to Your Plant Collection

Oleh Kathy Harvey June 03, 2023 Post a Comment

Are you looking for a new and interesting addition to your plant collection? Look no further than the curly succulent! This unique plant is sure to catch your eye with its distinctive shape and texture. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the curly succulent.

What is a Curly Succulent?

A curly succulent is a type of plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is characterized by its tightly curled leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The plant gets its name from the curly, twisted appearance of its leaves, which can range in color from green to blue-grey. The curly succulent is a slow-growing plant that can reach a height of up to 6 inches.

How to Care for a Curly Succulent

If you're considering adding a curly succulent to your plant collection, it's important to know how to care for it properly. Here are some tips to keep your curly succulent healthy:

Soil: Use well-draining soil, such as a mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Light: Place your curly succulent in bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch the leaves.
Water: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Temperature: Keep your curly succulent in a warm location, ideally between 60-80°F (15-27°C).
Fertilizer: Feed your curly succulent with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).

Types of Curly Succulents

There are several different types of curly succulents to choose from. Here are a few popular varieties:

Crassula 'Buddha's Temple'

This variety of curly succulent has tightly packed, twisted leaves that resemble a miniature pagoda. It is native to South Africa and can grow up to 8 inches tall.

Cotyledon tomentosa 'Bear's Paw'

The bear's paw succulent gets its name from the fuzzy, paw-shaped leaves that grow on its stems. This plant is native to Madagascar and can grow up to 12 inches tall.

Crassula 'Campfire'

The campfire succulent has vibrant, orange-red leaves that curl inward, giving it a unique appearance. This plant is native to South Africa and can grow up to 6 inches tall.

How to Propagate a Curly Succulent

One of the benefits of owning a curly succulent is that they are relatively easy to propagate. Here are two common methods for propagating your curly succulent:

Stem Cuttings

To propagate your curly succulent with stem cuttings, follow these steps:

Use a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut a healthy stem from the parent plant.
Allow the cutting to dry out in a shaded area for a few days until the cut end has calloused over.
Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water sparingly until it begins to root.

Leaf Cuttings

To propagate your curly succulent with leaf cuttings, follow these steps:

Gently twist off a healthy leaf from the parent plant.
Allow the leaf to dry out in a shaded area for a few days until the cut end has calloused over.
Place the dried leaf on top of well-draining soil and mist lightly with water.
Wait for roots to form, then transplant the new plant into its own pot.

Common Problems with Curly Succulents

As with any plant, there are a few common problems that you may encounter when caring for your curly succulent. Here are some issues to watch out for:

Overwatering

Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is a common problem with curly succulents. Make sure to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

Sunburn

Curly succulents can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause the leaves to become scorched and discolored. Keep your plant in bright, indirect sunlight to prevent sunburn.

Pests

Common pests that can affect curly succulents include mealybugs and spider mites. Check your plant regularly for signs of infestation, such as sticky residue or webbing.

Curly Succulent FAQs

What is the scientific name for the curly succulent?

The scientific name for the curly succulent is Crassula ovata 'Jade'.

How often should I water my curly succulent?

Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Depending on your climate, this may be once a week or once every few weeks.

Can I grow a curly succulent indoors?

Yes, curly succulents can thrive indoors as long as they receive enough bright, indirect sunlight.

How big do curly succulents get?

Curly succulents can grow up to 6 inches tall, depending on the variety.

Do curly succulents flower?

Yes, some varieties of curly succulents can produce small, star-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, or red.

How do I know if my curly succulent is getting too much sunlight?

If the leaves to turn brown or become scorched, your plant may be getting too much direct sunlight.

How do I fertilize my curly succulent?

Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).

Can I propagate my curly succulent from leaves?

Yes, curly succulents can be propagated from leaf cuttings.

What is the best type of soil for a curly succulent?

Use well-draining soil, such as a mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.

How long does it take for a curly succulent to root?

This can vary depending on the method of propagation and environmental factors, but it typically takes 2-4 weeks for roots to form.

The curly succulent is a unique and interesting addition to any plant collection. With its tightly curled leaves and distinctive shape, it is sure to catch your eye. By following proper care instructions and keeping an eye out for common problems, you can keep your curly succulent healthy and thriving for years to come.