Crassula

Crassulaceae
Cacti and succulents, Perennials

Most are from South Africa. All have succulent foliage; many have strange geometric forms. Need good drainage. May not survive winter frosts without overhead protection. To cope with extreme summer heat in desert zones 12 and 13, grow in pots or coolest sites (such as a northern exposure).

Crassula capitella thyrsiflora

To 6–30 in. high and a little wider than tall. Slightly branched, with rosettes of long, triangular, fleshy leaves; leaves are dark red when plant is grown in intense sunlight andpoor soil. Tiny white flowers insummer. ‘Campfire’ (may alsobe sold as C. coccinea or C. erusola) has spreading growth, 6–12 in. high with bright green leaves edged with bright orange-red. It is frost sensitive.

Crassula mucosa

Leafy, branching, erect stems to 1 ft. high and wide, closely packed with tiny green leaves in four rows; effect is that of braided chain or of some strange green coral. Very small, inconspicuous greenish flowers. Easy to grow and useful in dish gardens.

Crassula ovata

South Africa. Sometimes sold as Crassula portulacea. Top-notch houseplant, large container plant, landscaping shrub in mildest climates. Used only as potted plant in hottest desert regions. Plant has a stout trunk and sturdy limbs, even when small; and plants stay small in container. In time, can reach 9 ft. high, half as wide, but is usually smaller. Leaves are thick, oblong, fleshy pads 1–2 in. long, glossy bright green, sometimes with red-tinged edges. Clusters of pink, star shaped flowers appear from fall into spring.

Crassula schmidtii

Mat-forming,spreading plant to 4 in. tall,1 ft. wide, with long, slender,rich green leaves. Clusters ofsmall dark rose or purplishflowers put on a show in winterand spring. Good choice forpots or rock gardens.