Scientific Name
Crassula tecta Thunb.
Common Name(s)
Lizard Skin Crassula, Lizard Skin
Synonym(s)
Crassula decipiens
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Crassuloideae
Genus: Crassula
Description
Crassula tecta is a small attractive succulent with short branches covered by thick fleshy leaves to form rosettes. It grows up to 2 inches (5 cm) tall, often much-branched from the base. Leaves are grey-green, covered with white, irregularly shaped papillae giving them a grey or whitish appearance. They are variable in size and shape, up to 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) long and up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) wide. Flowers are tiny 5-petalled white cups with yellow anthers.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 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. As with all succulents, overwatering is sure to be fatal, so err on the side of too dry rather than too wet. Never let your plant sit in water. If you water from beneath by letting the plant sit in a saucer of water, ensure to 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 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 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.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Crassula.
Origin
This species is native to South Africa (Cape Province).
Hybrids
Links
- Back to genus Crassula
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
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