Scientific Name
Crassula perforata 'Variegata' (informal name)
Accepted Scientific Name
Crassula perforata Thunb.
Synonym(s)
Crassula perforata f. variegata (informal name)
Common Name(s)
Necklace Vine, Pagoda Plant, Stacked Crassula, String of Buttons
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, fleshy, and succulent nature of the leaves and stems that are characteristic of nearly every species in this genus.
The specific epithet "perforata" (pronounced "per-for-AY-tuh") means "pierced; penetrated" and refers to the perforated appearance of the leaves of this species.
The cultivar epithet 'Variegata' (pronounced "var-ee-GAY-tuh") means "variegated; having a pattern of different colors or marks" and refers to the variegated foliage of this plant.
Description
Crassula perforata 'Variegata' is an attractive succulent shrub with gray-green leaves adorned with broad cream-to-yellow margins, often tinged with pink. It can grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall. The leaves are thick, fleshy, triangular in shape, and fused with the opposite leaf at the base. They can measure up to 1.3 inches (3.3 cm) in length and 0.8 inches (2 cm) in width. Over time, the lower leaves usually lose their variegated coloring, and there may be some reversion to the typical green form.
In spring, small pale yellow flowers emerge from the plant.
Origin
Crassula perforata 'Variegata' is a form of Crassula perforata selected in cultivation for its variegated foliage.
How to Grow and Care for Crassula perforata f. variegata
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Crassulas are easy to grow but susceptible to mealybugs 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 cover the dish until they sprout.
Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot your Crassula, ensure the soil is dry, then gently remove the plant from its 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 begin to water lightly to reduce the risk of root rot.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Crassula.
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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