The Buddha ’s Temple plant , scientifically known as Crassula pyramidalis ‘ Buddha ’s Temple ’ , belong to the Crassulaceae family , commonly referred to as the stonecrop or orpine family . This succulent is a loanblend , typically derived from a crown of thorns between Crassula pyramidalis and Crassula perfoliata or Crassula falcata , look on the informant . The genus Crassula cover a diverse group of succulents , many of which are aboriginal to desiccate realm . The ‘ Buddha ’s Temple ’ cultivar is named for its unequalled , tiered structure that resemble the architecture of a pagoda or temple , make it a standout in the succulent world . Its classification position it among other drought - resistant plants adapted to store water in their leafage , a hallmark of the Crassulaceae home .
Crassula ‘ Buddha ’s Temple ’ is easily know by its prominent , geometric appearance . The plant constitute compendious , unsloped columns that can arise 6 to 12 in tall and 4 to 6 inches wide . Its leaves are boneheaded , fleshy , and triangular , arranged in tightly stacked , opposite twain that make a square or pagoda - alike structure . The leaves are a glossy putting surface , often with cherry or brownish border when exposed to burnished sunlight or drouth stress , adding to its optical appeal . Small , whizz - shaped flowers , pale pink to whitened , may appear in clusters at the stem tips during spring or summer , though flowering is rarified indoors . The industrial plant ’s slow ontogenesis and architectural form make it a favorite among succulent enthusiasts for its sculptured character .
While Crassula ‘ Buddha ’s Temple ’ is a cultivated hybrid , its parent species originate primarily from South Africa , where many Crassula species thrive in arid , rocky surround . The hybrid itself does not hap naturally in the wild and is instead pass around through horticultural practices worldwide . It is distribute globally as an cosmetic plant , popular in regions with suitable climate or as a houseplant in domain with colder winter . Its South African origin tie it to a part known for its plentiful succulent biodiversity , but the flora ’s cultivate nature means it is found wherever succulent accumulator and gardener school it , from temperate to subtropical zone .
Buddha ’s Temple is highly valuate in landscape gardening and indoor gardening for its grim care and striking visual aspect . Outdoors , it is often used in rock ‘n’ roll gardens , xeriscapes , or succulent beds , where its unsloped physical body contrasts with sprawling or little potato - shaped succulents . It thrives in containers , make it ideal for terrace , balcony , or belittled - space gardens . Indoors , it is a democratic houseplant , often displayed on windowsills or as part of a succulent assembling due to its compact size and sculptural aesthetic . The plant ’s drouth tolerance earn it suitable for water - wise landscapes , and its ability to abide neglect prayer to tyro gardeners . It pairs well with other succulents or cacti in assorted arrangements , adding vertical interest .
Crassula ‘ Buddha ’s Temple ’ is hardy in USDA zone 9a to 11b , where temperature range from 20 ° F to 50 ° F ( -6.7 ° C to 10 ° C ) . In these zones , it can be grow outdoors twelvemonth - circular , provided it is planted in well - run out soil and protected from excessive moisture . In cold climates ( zones below 9a ) , it is typically grown as a houseplant or in container that can be bring indoors during wintertime to nullify Robert Lee Frost damage . The flora choose promising , indirect light and warm temperatures , making it adaptable to indoor environs with proper fear . For outdoor cultivation in marginal zone , using mulch or frost cloth can help protect it during brief stale elasticity .
Cultivation of Buddha’s Temple Plant
Light Requirements
furnish vivid , indirect sunshine for at least 6 hours daily . outside , place it in a smirch with partial shade to forfend leaf sear in intense high noon sunlight . Indoors , a south- or west - face windowsill is idealistic . Insufficient luminance can cause stretch or weak growth , cut off its compact , pagoda - like form .
Soil Type
Use a well - drain succulent or cactus potting intermixture . A portmanteau word of 50 % pot soil , 25 % sand , and 25 % perlite or pumice works well to ensure proper drain . Avoid heavy , water - retentive filth , as they can lead to etymon hogwash in this drouth - tolerant flora .
Watering Needs
Water sparingly , appropriate the grime to dry out completely between waterings . In spring and summer , water every 10 - 14 days , reducing to once every 3 - 4 weeks in fall and wintertime . Overwatering is a common mistake — check dirt dryness with a finger or moisture meter before lacrimation .
Temperature Preferences
Maintain temperatures between 65 ° F and 80 ° F ( 18 ° hundred to 27 ° C ) for optimal growth . It can put up brief dips to 50 ° F ( 10 ° C ) but should be protected from frost . In USDA zone below 9a , bring the works indoors during wintertime to prevent cold damage .
Humidity Levels
Buddha ’s Temple thrive in low to moderate humidness , typical of desiccate environments . Indoor humidness of 30 - 50 % is sufficient . Avoid mellow - humidness areas like bathrooms unless airing is excellent , as extra moisture can advertise fungous issues .
Pot Selection
Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent weewee collection . Terracotta or the Great Compromiser pots are idealistic , as they wick away excess moisture . see the pot is slightly great than the plant ’s root organisation to avoid overly dampish condition , which can harm this slow grower .
fertilisation
Feed meagerly with a adulterate ( 1/4 potency ) fluid succulent fertilizer once every 4 - 6 weeks during the grow time of year ( spring and summer ) . forfend fertilize in fall and wintertime when development slow . Over - fertilization can cause soft , leggy growth or salt buildup in the soil .
Pruning
Minimal pruning is take due to its slow growth . hit any dead or discredited leaves at the base with uninfected , sharp scissors hold to keep appearance and prevent rot . If the works becomes top - heavy , trim the top to encourage constancy , though this is rarified .
Propagation
disperse via stem turn cuttings or leaf offsets . Cut a salubrious stem division , get it callus for 1 - 2 days , and works in moist succulent soil . Keep lightly moist until root form ( 2 - 4 weeks ) . Leaf generation is less reliable but possible by placing a tidy leaf on dirt and waiting for ascendent .
Pest Control
supervise for common pest like mealy bug or wanderer mites . Inspect leafage crevice regularly . If pests appear , handle with a cotton swab dip in rubbing alcohol or enforce neem fossil oil thin out with water . Avoid overwatering , as it draw in pests and promotes fungal growth .
Repotting
Repot every 2 - 3 old age or when the industrial plant outgrows its mess , typically in spring . Gently off the works , shake off onetime soil , and replant in impudent succulent admixture . Handle roots carefully , as they are fragile . Repotting review nutrients and prevents ground compaction .
Flowering Care
Buddha ’s Temple may produce small , pale pink to white prime in spring or summer , though flower is rarified indoors . Encourage flowering by providing ample brightness level and avoiding overwatering . After flowering , trim spent flower stalks to asseverate the plant ’s tidy show .
Common Issues
watch out for signs of overwatering ( soft , yellow leaves ) or underwatering ( shrivel up , teetotal farewell ) . set tearing accordingly . If the works angle or stretches , it likely necessitate more light-colored — rotate the pot weekly for even picture . Root moulder from poor drainage is a frequent take , so prioritise well - drain soil and conservative watering .