Crassula 'Springtime' is a charming and popular succulent hybrid, often believed to be a cross between Crassula perfoliata var. minor and Crassula rupestris. It is admired for its compact, upright growth habit and the delightful clusters of pink to reddish flowers it produces, typically in late winter to early spring, hence its evocative name. This plant offers a delightful combination of interesting foliage and attractive blooms, making it a favorite among succulent enthusiasts.
 
Key Features of Crassula 'Springtime'
Upright, Bushy Growth: Forms a small, upright, and somewhat branching shrub-like structure.
Fleshy, Stacked Leaves: Features pairs of fleshy, triangular to ovate leaves that are tightly stacked along the stems, often with a slight upward curve.
Color Variations: Leaf color can range from shades of green and grey-green to hints of red or pink, particularly along the edges and when exposed to more sunlight or cooler temperatures.
Abundant Pink to Red Flowers: Produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers in shades of bright pink to reddish-pink, creating a lovely floral display that contrasts beautifully with the foliage.
Relatively Easy Flowering: Compared to some other Crassulas, 'Springtime' is known to flower relatively readily under proper growing conditions.
 
Care for Your Crassula 'Springtime'
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its compact growth and encourage flowering. It can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from intense afternoon sun.
Soil: Requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus and succulent mix is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering should be avoided. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months after flowering.
Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to average indoor humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
Pruning After Flowering: After the flowers fade, you can lightly prune the spent flower stalks to encourage bushier growth.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger and has good drainage. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests such as mealybugs and aphids, which can sometimes appear on the stems or in the leaf junctions. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents. Avoid over-fertilizing.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Stem Cuttings: A reliable method. Take healthy stem cuttings a few inches long, allow the cut ends to callus over for a few days, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
Leaf Cuttings: While possible, leaf propagation can be slower. Select healthy, mature leaves, allow the cut end to callus, and place them on top of well-draining soil. New plantlets may eventually emerge.
Offsets: Mature plants may occasionally produce small offsets at the base, which can be carefully separated and repotted.
 
Crassula 'Springtime' is a delightful succulent that offers year-round appeal with its neat foliage and a burst of cheerful pink to reddish flowers, typically heralding the arrival of spring. Its relatively easy care and attractive blooms make it a welcome addition to any succulent collection, bringing a touch of seasonal beauty indoors or in protected outdoor spaces.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide.  Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.