Crassula rupestris, commonly known as Rosary Vine, Kebab Bush, Concertina Plant, or Buttons on a String, is a heavily branched succulent native to the arid rocky slopes of South Africa. It is highly prized for its unique, geometric appearance, characterized by thick, triangular leaves that are fused at the base, resembling beads stacked vertically on thin stems. This species has received the prestigious Award of Garden Merit🡕 from the Royal Horticultural Society🡕.
Taxonomy of Crassula rupestris
Scientific Name
Crassula rupestris Thunb.
Synonym(s)
Purgosea rupestris
Common Name(s)
Bead Vine, Buttons on a String, Concertina Bush, Concertina Plant, Concertina Stonecrop, Kebab Bush, Necklace Vine, Rock Crassula, Rosary Vine
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 the genus.
The specific epithet "rupestris" (pronounced "rue-PES-tris") means "rock-dwelling; growing on rocks" and refers to the natural habitat of the species.
Description
Crassula rupestris is a succulent shrublet with leaves fused around erect, spreading, or rarely decumbent branches. It can grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) tall and is very variable in leaf size and shape, as well as in how much its bases are fused. The branches are slender and slightly woody near the base, while the leaves are thick, fleshy, oval to lance-shaped, measuring up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) long and wide. The color of the leaves ranges from greyish-green to brownish-red or purple with yellow or brilliant red margins.
In spring, the plant produces dense clusters of small flowers that range in color from white to pinkish or reddish. The flower clusters are held on short stalks at the end of the branches and can reach a diameter of 2 inches (5 cm).
Origin
Crassula rupestris is native to South Africa. It grows on north- or east-facing, lower rocky slopes, in exposed positions among boulders, and on top of ledges from Vanrhynsdorp and the Cape Peninsula in the Western Cape to Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape province.
Subspecies and Forms of Crassula rupestris
- Crassula monticola (not accepted as a separate species and is treated as a synonym of Crassula rupestris subsp. rupestris)
- Crassula rupestris subsp. commutata
- Crassula rupestris subsp. marnieriana
- Crassula rupestris subsp. rupestris
Cultivars and Hybrids of Crassula rupestris
- Crassula rupestris subsp. marnieriana 'Contorta'
- Crassula rupestris 'High Voltage'
- Crassula 'Bride's Bouquet'
- Crassula 'Green Pagoda'
- Crassula 'Silver Springtime'
- Crassula 'Springtime'
- Crassula 'Tom Thumb'
How to Grow and Care for Crassula rupestris
Light: Crassula rupestris prefers full sun to partial shade. However, avoid intense afternoon sun during the hot summer days, as it can burn the leaves. If growing the plant indoors, place it in a window with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Soil: This plant is not particular about soil pH, but it does require very porous, well-draining soil. You can use a commercial soil mix for succulents or create your own.
Temperature: While this succulent can tolerate average summer temperatures and short-term freezing, extreme cold or heat can cause it to lose leaves and even die. Crassula rupestris 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 by using the "soak and dry" method to keep the plant healthy. Water deeply and then let the soil completely dry out before watering again. Reduce watering in winter. The potted plants require more frequent watering than those in the ground.
Fertilizing: While Crassula rupestris 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 beginning to repot.
Propagation: This plant is usually propagated by leaves and stem cuttings. Using leaves is the easiest method, but stem cuttings produce larger plants more quickly. It can also be grown from seeds. The best time for propagation by cuttings is at the beginning of the growing season, while spring and summer are ideal for sowing the seeds.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Crassula.
Toxicity of Crassula rupestris
Crassula rupestris is considered non-toxic and is safe for growing around children and pets.
Photo Gallery
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Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Crassula.
- Explore all plants within the family Crassulaceae.