Description
Crassula muscosa, also known as Crassula lycopodioides, is a bushy succulent with erect to decumbent, more or less branched stems and tiny leaves densely packed around the stem, forming a square mass. It is very variable in size and leaf shape and grows up to 40 cm tall. Branches are up to 50 cm long, up to 1 cm in diameter, and often curve towards the light. The main branches are woody, at least at the base. Leaves are light green or grey- to brownish-green, and the old ones usually remain attached to branches. The tiny flowers are cup-shaped, pale yellowish-green to brown, and appear in summer.
How to Grow and Care
Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to light shade or indoors. If planting indoors, place in a room with a lot of sunlight, such as near a southern-facing window. The best color is maintained with a bit of shade, even on the coast.
Watch Chain has typical watering needs for a succulent. It is best to use the “soak and dry” method and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Since Watch Chain is not cold-hardy, it should be brought indoors when the temperature falls below -6.7 °C.
The plants should be fed with a controlled-release fertilizer during the growing season. They can also be feed weekly with a weak liquid solution.
While in summer, it needs a lot more water, and it should not be exposed to full sun, as it only values brightness but would suffer under excessive sunlight. When these conditions are not met, the plant begins to dry and stiffen, generally starting from the stem’s base up to the tips.
Origin
This species is native to Namibia and South Africa (Eastern Cape, Free State, North West, Northern Cape, Western Cape).
Source: https://worldofsucculents.com/crassula-muscosa-watch-chain-princess-pine-rattail-crassula-clubmoss-crassula/
