Miniature Pine Tree
(Crassula tetragona)
Miniature Pine Tree (Crassula tetragona)
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André Karwath akaAka
CC BY-SA 2.5
Image By:
André Karwath akaAka
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 2.5
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: André Karwath akaAka | License Type: CC BY-SA 2.5 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5 | Uploader: Aka | Publisher: Wikipedia Commons |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Crassula tetragona, commonly known as Miniature Pine Tree, is an evergreen succulent native to the arid grasslands and rocky outcrops of South Africa. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 1 meter (3 feet) in height, resembling a small conifer with its woody stems and brown bark. The leaves are arranged in crossed pairs, are green to dark green, and mimic the appearance of pine needles, hence the common name. During the summer, it produces terminal inflorescences with small, inconspicuous white flowers.
The Miniature Pine Tree is valued for its unique, conifer-like appearance and is often used in succulent gardens, rockeries, and as a container plant. It is relatively easy to maintain, requiring minimal water once established, and thrives in well-draining soil. It prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade, especially in hotter climates. While it is frost-resistant, it grows best in temperatures above 40 °F (4 °C). Propagation is straightforward through leaf cuttings or stem cuttings. The plant is generally pest-resistant, though it may occasionally be affected by mealybugs.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Miniature Pine Tree is valued for its unique, conifer-like appearance and is often used in succulent gardens, rockeries, and as a container plant. It is relatively easy to maintain, requiring minimal water once established, and thrives in well-draining soil. It prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade, especially in hotter climates. While it is frost-resistant, it grows best in temperatures above 40 °F (4 °C). Propagation is straightforward through leaf cuttings or stem cuttings. The plant is generally pest-resistant, though it may occasionally be affected by mealybugs.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub, Succulent
- Height: 3-4 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Very Low, Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Arid grasslands and rocky outcrops in South Africa
Other Names
Common Names: Mini Pine Tree
Scientific Names: Crassula tetragona , Crassula radicans , Crassula fruticulosa , Crassula acutifolia , Crassula acutifolia var. densifolia , Crassula biplanata
GBIF Accepted Name: Crassula tetragona L.