Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi is a small, succulent native to South Africa's Eastern Cape province. It is highly valued for its compact, cushion-forming growth habit, distinctive dimpled leaves, and delicate star-shaped flowers.
Taxonomy of 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
Etymology
The generic name "Crassula" (pronounced "KRASS-oo-la") means "somewhat thick" and refers to the thick, succulent leaves and stems characteristic of nearly every species in this genus.
The specific epithet "exilis" (pronounced "EKS-il-iss") means "slender," "thin," or "delicate" and likely refers to this species' small, delicate overall growth habit.
The specific epithet "cooperi" (pronounced "koo-PER-ee") honors Thomas Cooper (1815–1913), an English botanist and explorer who collected plants in South Africa from 1859 to 1862. He was the father-in-law of Nicholas Edward Brown🡕.
Description
Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi, also known as Crassula cooperi, is a branched succulent that forms dense cushions, often covering large areas of soil under rocks in its natural habitat. 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 (10 cm) wide.
The flowers are small, cup-shaped, white to pinkish, and appear from fall through mid-winter.
Origin
Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi is native to South Africa. It is found mainly in the Eastern Cape province between Graaff-Reinet (officially renamed Robert Sobukwe Town in February 2026) and Aliwal North (officially Maletswai), growing in moist, shaded rock crevices, usually under rock faces on lower slopes of hills and mountains.
Hybrids of Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi
How to Grow and Care for Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi
Light: Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi prefers full sun to partial shade. However, avoid intense afternoon sun during the hot summer days, as it can burn the leaves. If you're growing the plant indoors, place it in a window that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Soil: This plant isn't particular about soil pH, but it does require soil that is very porous and drains well. You can use a commercial succulent mix or make your own.
Temperature: This succulent tolerates average summer temperatures and short-term freezing, but extreme cold or heat can cause it to drop leaves and even die. Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9b to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 25 to 50 °F (-3.9 to 10 °C).
Watering: Avoid overwatering using the "soak and dry" method to keep the plant healthy. Water deeply and then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Reduce watering in winter. Potted plants need more frequent watering than those in the ground.
Fertilizing: While Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi does not require high levels of nutrients, it will benefit from a small amount of organic fertilizer in mid-spring when it starts actively growing.
Repotting: Repot the plant as needed, preferably in spring, at the beginning of the growing season. Make sure the soil is dry before you begin repotting.
Propagation: Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi can be propagated by stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, and seeds. Stem cuttings are generally the easiest and most reliable method, while leaf propagation may be less successful. The best time to take cuttings is during active growth. Let the cut surfaces dry before planting in a well-draining soil mix. You can sow seeds in spring or autumn under suitable conditions.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Crassula.
Toxicity of Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi
Crassula exilis subsp. cooperi is considered non-toxic and is safe for growing around children and pets.
Photo Gallery
Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Crassula.
- Explore all plants within the family Crassulaceae.