Tacitus bellus: The Superstar Succulent with Dazzling Flowers

Tacitus bellus (Superstar)

Greetings, fellow plant lovers! Let me introduce you to a true gem of the succulent world: *Tacitus bellus*. This captivating plant, sometimes called the Superstar or Christmas Flower, is native to Mexico and boasts a unique charm. With its intriguing rosettes and vibrant blooms, it's sure to become a favourite in your collection.

Distinctive Features

• Rosettes: Forms small, flattened rosettes, reaching up to 10 cm (4 inches) in diameter. These rosettes slowly multiply, creating a charming cluster.
• Leaves: Each leaf is smooth, roughly triangular, and just over 25 mm (1 inch) long, with an attractive slate-grey colour. The leaf shape can display subtle variations.
• Flowers: Among the most flamboyant in the Crassula family, the flowers are over 2.5 cm (1 inch) across and boast a vibrant deep pink to red colour. They appear on upright, branched stalks (inflorescences) about 10 cm (4 inches) tall. Each flower has 5 petals, forming a star shape, with dark pink/red stamens tipped with white anthers.

Care Tips

• Light: While it can tolerate full sun, Tacitus bellus prefers light shade to part shade for optimal leaf colour. In full sun, it will grow more compactly.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the summer, it needs more frequent watering than many other succulents.
• Soil: Use a gritty, porous mix with good drainage that still retains some moisture. A blend of equal parts loam and small gravel (such as pumice or lava grit) is ideal.
• Temperature: To encourage flowering, provide a cool period of at least a month at 15°C (59°F) or less during the winter. Although generally frost-tender, a dry plant can tolerate brief periods down to -5°C (23°F) or even lower.
• Fertiliser: Fertilise only once during the growing season, using a balanced fertiliser diluted to ¼ strength.
• Propagation: Easily propagated from offsets or individual leaves rooted in sand or vermiculite.

Additional Notes

• The cultivar 'Superstar' is particularly popular, boasting larger rosettes, greener leaves, and even more intensely red flowers.
• Be vigilant for mealybugs, which can be attracted to the tightly packed rosettes.
• Tacitus bellus is a wonderfully versatile plant, suitable for rock gardens, containers, or as a houseplant on a sunny windowsill. Its low maintenance and striking appearance make it a fantastic choice for any plant enthusiast!