This fluffy plant is an explosion of silver-green foliage, each leaf's deep green darkening from brighter green towards the stem. The foliage is also coated in short, fuzzy hairs, like the arachnid its variety name comes from - though much less likely to bite! Growing dense foliage in a compact, bushy shape, this houseplant is ideal to spruce up your window display with fun texture and bright green colour.
Scientific Name
Crassula x hybrida 'Tarantula' (thick-leaved plant, hybrid species, cultivar: Tarantula)
This is a hybrid species in the Crassula genus
Common Name
Tarantula Jade Plant, Tarantula Crassula
Origin
This plant originates in Namibia
Light
Bright light is important for Crassulae, so pick a spot where it can get a few hours of morning or evening sun.
Water
Let all of the soil dry out between waters; remember, in its natural habitat this plant is used to droughts between infrequent downpours. Cold water can shock the plant, so make sure your water is room-temperature at least before watering.
Humidity
Crassulae are used to low humidity, so don't keep it anywhere damp. An occasional hose down will keep the leaves free of dust, but make sure it dries out completely afterwards.
Soil
Use a well-draining soil mix with components such as sand and grit; a mix designed for cacti and succulents will work well here. Repot every 2-3 years in the spring.
Food
Feed every two months in the growing season, reduce to every three in autumn and winter.
Temperature
Ideal temperature is 15-26°C; make sure it does not get colder than 12°C in winter.
Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.
Sprouts Top Tips
Keep an eye on the colour of the leaves to check on some of the most common issues with Crassula. If the leaves start to go red (aside from their natural variegation), this is a sign of sunburn and they should be gradually moved to a location with less direct sun. If the leaves are going yellow, however, the plant is probably too damp, and will benefit from brighter light and less frequent watering.
