Crassula arborescens 'curly gray'

Common names: Silver Jade Plant
Family: Crassulaceae

Crassula arborescens is a robust, woody succulent native to the Western Cape Province of South Africa. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive silver-grey foliage and tree-like growth habit.

Origin and Habitat

This species grows naturally on rocky slopes and hillsides in semi-arid regions with well-drained soils. It thrives in Mediterranean-type climates with wet winters and dry summers. Crassula arborescens is often found in scrubland and fynbos vegetation communities.

Plant Description

Crassula arborescens forms a small shrub or tree, growing up to 2 meters tall. Its thick, oval-shaped leaves have a dense covering of fine white hairs, giving them a silvery or grey-blue appearance. The leaves grow in opposite pairs along woody stems. In winter or early spring, the plant produces small, star-shaped, white to pale pink flowers clustered in dense inflorescences.

Care Instructions

Light
Prefers full sun to partial shade. The silvery leaves reflect intense sunlight, helping the plant tolerate hot conditions.

Watering
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.

Soil
Use a well-draining succulent or cactus soil mix.

Temperature
Thrives between 15°C and 27°C. Protect from frost, though it can tolerate light cold if kept dry.

Additional Information

Crassula arborescens is slow-growing but long-lived, making an excellent structural specimen in gardens or containers. It propagates easily from stem or leaf cuttings. Its drought tolerance and striking foliage make it a popular choice for xeriscaping and low-maintenance landscapes.

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