Crassula falcata, also known as the “Airplane Plant” or “propeller plant” is a succulent species of the Crassula genus, native to South Africa. It is known for its distinctive, fan-like leaves resembling an Airplane Propeller’s shape.
The leaves are typically grey-green and have a slightly curved, flattened shape. The plant is drought-tolerant and easy to care for, making it a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardens.
It will grow to about a foot in height and width and can be propagated easily from leaves and stem cuttings. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. It also goes dormant in winter and will lose leaves but will come back in the spring.
Why is Crassula falcata called an Airplane Plant?
Because of the shape of its leaves, Crassula falcata is commonly known as the “Airplane Plant”, which resembles the shape of an airplane propeller.
The plant’s flattened, slightly curved leaves are arranged in a fan-like pattern, giving the plant its unique and distinctive appearance. This resemblance to airplane propellers may have earned the plant its common name.
How to Care of an Airplane Plant?
Here are some tips for caring for an Airplane Plant (Crassula falcata):
- Light: The airplane plant prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much sun can cause the leaves to turn yellow.
- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant, so it doesn’t require a lot of water. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
- Soil: The airplane plant prefers well-draining soil. A cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal.
- Temperature: The airplane plant is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Fertilizer: It doesn’t require much fertilizer, but if you wish to fertilize, use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half strength once a month during the growing season.
- Pruning: The airplane plant can be pruned to keep it in shape and to promote bushier growth. Pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage branching.
- Propagation: This plant can be easily propagated from leaves or stem cuttings. Allow the cutting to callus for a day or two before planting in well-draining soil.
- Dormancy: In winter, the airplane plant will go dormant and lose leaves but return in spring.
It’s important to note that the Airplane Plant (Crassula Falcata) is sensitive to fluoride, commonly found in tap water, so it’s best to use rainwater or distilled water.
How fast do Airplane Plants grow?
The growth rate of Crassula falcata, or airplane plants, can vary depending on light, temperature, and soil conditions. In general, airplane plants are considered to be slow-growing. They will grow taller and bushier over time, but this growth may occur over several months or even years.
Under optimal conditions, such as bright indirect light, well-draining soil, and moderate temperatures, airplane plants can grow to about a foot in height and width. They will also put out new offsets (tiny plants that grow from the base) that can be used for propagation.
It’s also worth noting that during the winter season, the plant goes dormant and may lose leaves, but it will come back in the spring.
Common FAQs
Q1: How often should I water my Airplane Plant (Crassula Falcata)?
Airplane plants are drought-tolerant, so they don’t require a lot of water. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
Q2: Why are the leaves on my Crassula Falcata turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can be caused by overwatering, under-watering, or exposure to too much direct sunlight. Make sure you are not watering too frequently, and ensure that the plant is getting enough light.
Q3: Can I propagate my Airplane Plant (Crassula Falcata) from leaves or stem cuttings?
Yes, airplane plants can be easily propagated from leaves or stem cuttings. Allow the cutting to callus over for a day or two before planting in well-draining soil.
Q4: What should I do if my Crassula Falcata goes dormant and loses leaves in winter?
During winter, the airplane plant will go dormant and may lose leaves, but it will come back in the spring. Do not water the plant during this time as it is not actively growing. Keep it in a cool place and wait until spring to see new growth.
