Troubleshooting
Flat-Leaved Crassula problems — and how to fix them
Flat-Leaved Crassula (Crassula platyphylla) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Root rot
Soggy soil quickly rots the shallow root system. Ensure the container has drainage holes and allow the soil to dry fully between waterings.
Loss of red colour
Leaves revert to green in low light. Move to a brighter spot with some direct sun to restore the burgundy pigmentation.
Mealybugs
Cluster in leaf axils. Remove with isopropyl alcohol and monitor regularly.
Sunburn
Pale, papery patches appear if moved directly into hot midday sun. Acclimatise the plant gradually.
Stretching
Stems elongate and leaves space out in low light. Prune back lightly to tidy the plant and improve light levels.
Prevent flat-leaved crassula problems before they start
Most flat-leaved crassula issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Flat-Leaved Crassula problems — FAQ
Why is my flat-leaved crassula root rot?
Soggy soil quickly rots the shallow root system. Ensure the container has drainage holes and allow the soil to dry fully between waterings.
Why is my flat-leaved crassula loss of red colour?
Leaves revert to green in low light. Move to a brighter spot with some direct sun to restore the burgundy pigmentation.
Why is my flat-leaved crassula mealybugs?
Cluster in leaf axils. Remove with isopropyl alcohol and monitor regularly.
Why is my flat-leaved crassula sunburn?
Pale, papery patches appear if moved directly into hot midday sun. Acclimatise the plant gradually.
Why is my flat-leaved crassula stretching?
Stems elongate and leaves space out in low light. Prune back lightly to tidy the plant and improve light levels.