Scientific Name
Crassula capensis (L.) Baill.
Common Name(s)
Cape Snowdrop
Synonym(s)
Crassula capensis var. capensis, Crassula septas, Septas capensis
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Crassuloideae
Genus: Crassula
Etymology
The specific epithet "capensis (ka-PEN-sis)" means " form the Cape" and refers to the native range of the species.
Origin
Crassula capensis is native to South Africa (Western Cape).
Description
Crassula capensis is a succulent geophyte with erect stems that grow from ball-shaped tubers with fibrous roots. It can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall and has 2 to 4 pairs of leaves developed before or during flowering. The leaves are green, glabrous, and elliptic with scalloped edges. They can measure up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) long and up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) wide and are attached to the stem by a petiole up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long.
The flowers are white, often tinged pink, star-shaped, and can reach up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) in diameter. They appear in clusters on stalks raised above the leaves from winter to spring. The flower stalks can grow up to 5.2 inches (13 cm) long.
How to Grow and Care for Crassula capensis
Light: Crassula plants prefer full sun to partial shade. However, intense afternoon sun in the hottest period of summer can burn the leaves of the plants. Most Crassulas can be grown indoors if given enough light.
Soil: They are not particular about soil pH, but Crassulas require very porous soil with excellent drainage.
Hardiness: Crassula capensis can withstand temperatures as low as 20 to 50 °F (-6.7 to 10 °C), USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b.
Watering: These plants have typical watering needs for succulents. Avoid overwatering using the "soak and dry" method, where the soil is soaked with water, slowly drained, and left to dry out before watering again. Reduce watering in winter.
Fertilizing: Crassulas will benefit from a small amount of organic fertilizer in mid-spring when they start actively growing.
Repotting: Repot as needed, preferably in spring, at the beginning of active growth.
Propagation: Crassulas are generally started by leaves or stem cuttings. They can also be grown from seeds and offsets.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Crassula.
Toxicity of Crassula capensis
Crassula plants are generally nontoxic to people and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Crassula
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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