How to Care for Your Crassula tetragona v. connivens (Mini Bonsai Pine Crassula)

The Crassula tetragona v. connivens, commonly known as Miniature Pine Tree Crassula, is a sculptural succulent prized for its upright needle-like foliage and dense branching form. Its structured silhouette resembles a small evergreen, giving it a refined architectural presence in bright interiors. With strong light and extended dry periods, this species becomes a long lived, low maintenance plant that blends clean lines with subtle texture.

Light Requirements

• Prefers very bright interior light with steady daily illumination
• Strong light supports compact growth and dense branching
• Keep the plant in a consistent location to prevent stretching

Watering Schedule

• Allow the soil to dry almost completely between waterings
• Drying speed varies depending on airflow, temperature, and seasonal light
• Water slowly and evenly so the soil hydrates without becoming heavy
• Always check dryness below the surface using your finger or a moisture meter

How to Understand Watering Needs

• Miniature Pine Tree Crassula stores moisture in its stems and prefers long dry intervals
• Slight stem softening can indicate readiness for water
• Mushy stems usually signal watering too frequently
• Consistent drying cycles support upright structured growth

Fertilizer Tips

• Feed lightly during spring and summer with a balanced gentle fertilizer
• Pause feeding when growth slows
• Light fertilization supports healthy branching and foliage density

Trimming and Pruning

• Prune to shape or encourage fuller branching
• Make clean cuts above a node
• Remove aging lower stems as needed
• Regular light pruning maintains a compact, pine-like form

Pest Control and Identifying Issues

• Inspect regularly for mealybugs, scale, and spider mites
• Mealybugs appear as white cottony clusters
• Scale presents as small rounded bumps along stems
• Spider mites cause subtle speckling
• Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed
• Maintain airflow and avoid overly moist soil to discourage pests

Common Issues

• Mushy stems: Usually caused by watering too frequently
• Leggy or stretched growth: Indicates insufficient light
• Leaf drop at base: Can occur with environmental shifts
• Shriveled stems: Signals the plant is fully dry

Repotting Notes

• Repot every two to three years, or when roots begin to fill the vessel
• Use a structured, fast draining succulent mix
• Repot during active growth for best recovery

Lifespan and Growth

Crassula tetragona v. connivens grows steadily, forming a woody base and upright needle-like branches. With strong light and restrained watering, it becomes a long lived architectural succulent that adds clean vertical structure to bright interior collections.

Quick Tips at a Glance

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