Crassula helmsii aka New Zealand Pigmyweed
Taxonomy ID: 14147
Crassula helmsii, also known as swamp stonecrop or New Zealand pigmyweed, is a hardy aquatic or semi-terrestrial succulent belonging to the Crassulaceae family. Originally found in Australia and New Zealand, it has now been introduced and become invasive in many countries, including the UK where it was banned from sale in 2014. This plant forms a carpet near ponds and rivers and can completely or partially submerge its stems in water. It has stiff shoots with small narrow leaves and produces flowers with four petals in the summer, emerging from the axils of upper leaves and always above the water. Despite being part of a diverse genus of plants, Crassula helmsii is known for its low maintenance and ability to withstand drought. It should be planted in a pot with a drainage hole and placed in a sunny location to keep it happy.
Common names
New Zealand Pigmyweed, Swamp Stonecrop, Swamp CrassulaMore information about New Zealand Pigmyweed
How difficult is it to take care of New Zealand Pigmyweed
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, New Zealand Pigmyweed is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
What is the region of origin of New Zealand Pigmyweed
New Zealand Pigmyweed’s native range is South Africa.
What are the water needs for New Zealand Pigmyweed
New Zealand Pigmyweed does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
What is the right soil for New Zealand Pigmyweed
To keep your New Zealand Pigmyweed healthy, it's important to use a potting soil that won't retain too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.
What is the sunlight requirement for New Zealand Pigmyweed
To ensure optimal growth, the New Zealand Pigmyweed prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
What's the right humidity for New Zealand Pigmyweed
New Zealand Pigmyweed thrives in dry environments, but if you provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on its leaves could create an ideal environment for certain fungal diseases.
How to fertilize New Zealand Pigmyweed
The New Zealand Pigmyweed is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Is New Zealand Pigmyweed toxic to humans/pets?
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
What's the dormancy for New Zealand Pigmyweed
During the cold period, it is common for New Zealand Pigmyweed to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Crassula Genus
Crassula sarmentosa Jade Tree
Crassula cotyledonis Crassula Dubia
Crassula perforata String Of Buttons
Crassula alba Crassula Alba
Crassula dichotoma Crassula Dichotoma
Crassula volkensii
Crassula streyi
Crassula subulata Crassula Subulata
