24 May 2017
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CRASSULAS – GARDEN SURVIVORS

Crassulas – garden survivors

This group of succulent plants are extremely variable in terms of leaf shape, structure and size. Small star shaped flowers are usually cream or white with red or pink the exception in some of the more colourful species. Many have attractive foliage some of which colours brightly during the colder winter months. Their drought tolerance and low water needs make crassulas and other members of the family highly desirable plants in the current climate. Select from the interesting range on offer from shrubs to low groundcovers and even miniature succulents that aren’t out of place in a fairy garden.

These are a few of the crassula plants likely to be in stock right now.  

Crassula ovata (jade tree or dollar plant) – stately many branched shrub with thick glossy green leaves with red margins. Pale pink flowers in terminal clusters during winter add to the allure of this enduring succulent. Often called money plant.

Crassula multicava (fairy crassula) – tough and enduring groundcover for difficult growing conditions. Pale pink flowers make a splendid show in winter.

Crassula streyi (purple-leaved fairy crassula) – excellent groundcover for sun or shade. Masses of pale pink flowers in winter above the purple backed foliage.

Crassula capitella subsp. thyrsiflora – low branched perennial with fleshy leaves arranged in neat quadrants. During winter they turn orange to scarlet. White flowers contrast strongly.

Crassula pellucida – a low growing groundcover with small rounded fleshy leaves and tiny starry white flowers. Good for planting at the base of specimen plants in pots.

Growing hints:

  • Full sun or light shade in some instances
  • Well drained loam or sandy soil
  • Very low water requirement once established
  • Feed sparingly with granular fertiliser in spring
  • Some are moderately cold and frost hardy, check before planting

Garden uses:

  • Succulent and aloe gardens
  • Pots and containers
  • Groundcovers in large landscapes and garden beds
  • Hanging baskets
  • Hot dry banks with poor soil