Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi

Scientific Name

Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi (Regel) Tölken

Synonym(s)

Crassula cooperi, Crassula bolusii, Sedum regelii

Scientific Classification

Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Crassuloideae
Genus: Crassula

Origin

Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi is native to South Africa (Cape Province).

Description

Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi is a branched succulent that forms dense cushions, often covering large soil areas under rocks. The stems are covered with fine-spreading hairs. The leaves are grey-green with dark, dimpled spots on the upper surface. They are flattened, measuring up to 1.8 inches (4.5 cm) long and 4 inches (1 cm) wide.

The flowers are small, cup-shaped, white to more or less pink, and appear in fall through to mid-winter.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Crassulas are easy to grow but susceptible to mealy bugs and fungal diseases. Overwatering is sure to be fatal, as with all succulents, so err on the side of being too dry rather than too wet. Never let your plant sit in water. If you water from beneath by allowing the plant to sit in a saucer, pour off any excess water after a few minutes.

These succulents are generally started by division, offsets, or leaf cuttings. Crassulas can be easily propagated from a single leaf. Sprout leaves by placing them into a potting mix for succulents, then covering the dish until they sprout.

Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot your Crassula, ensure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, removing any rotted or dead roots. Treat any cuts with a fungicide. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill it with potting soil, spreading the roots as you repot. Leave the plant dry for a week or so, then water lightly to reduce the risk of root rot.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Crassula.

Hybrids

Crassula 'Justus Corderoy'