The Crassula mesembrianthemopsis is a compact, drought-tolerant succulent known for its unusual, almost alien-like appearance and low-growing habit. It thrives both as a potted specimen indoors and as part of rock gardens in arid climates, where it adds a curious and sculptural texture.
Native to the southern parts of Namibia and South Africa, the Crassula mesembrianthemopsis has chubby, cylindrical leaves, which are covered in fine, silvery hairs that give it a velvety texture and help reduce water loss.
These leaves often grow in tight clusters, giving the plant a soft, cloud-like appearance.
Mature plants stay low and spread, usually reaching around 4 inches tall and about 6 inches wide, forming a dense mat over time.
Its soft silver sheen not only serves a functional purpose but also makes it stand out in any succulent collection.
Tiny star-shaped flowers may appear at the tips of the plant during late summer or fall, typically in white to pale pink shades.
While not particularly showy, the flowers add a delicate contrast to the textured foliage and signal the plant’s maturity and seasonal rhythm. Blooming is more likely when the plant experiences a temperature shift between day and night or a seasonal dry period.
For care, Crassula mesembrianthemopsis prefers bright, indirect light indoors or filtered full sun outdoors. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially during morning hours, but harsh afternoon sun can scorch the leaves. Use a gritty, well-drained succulent soil mix. Water infrequently but deeply, allowing the soil to dry out entirely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Indoors, the plant does best in temperatures between 60–75°F, and should be protected from frost.
Outdoors, it is hardy to about USDA zones 10–11, where it can be grown year-round in rock gardens or containers.
Fertilize sparingly, no more than once a year during spring, with a diluted NPK fertilizer (5-10-5).
Pruning is rarely needed, but you can pinch off leggy stems to maintain its compact shape.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Crassula mesembrianthemopsis is a rare and charming succulent that appeals to collectors and minimalist gardeners alike. With proper care, it thrives in both indoor containers and warm-climate outdoor arrangements. Its unique form, low maintenance needs, and drought resistance make it an excellent choice for succulent enthusiasts looking for something a little different.
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Resistance
Sun Exposure
Watering Needs
| Bloom Season | Late summer |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Crassula mesembrianthemopsis |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Flower Color | Pale pink |
| Genus | Crassula |
| Growth Habit | Rosette |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 4 in. tall, 6 in. wide |
| Native Area | Namibia, South Africa |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Propagation | By cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, heat tolerant, pest resistance |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | Succulents potting mix soil |
| Special Features | Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats |
| Watering Needs | Low |
Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features
| Bloom Season | Late summer |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Crassula mesembrianthemopsis |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Flower Color | Pale pink |
| Genus | Crassula |
| Growth Habit | Rosette |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 4 in. tall, 6 in. wide |
| Native Area | Namibia, South Africa |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Propagation | By cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, heat tolerant, pest resistance |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | Succulents potting mix soil |
| Special Features | Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats |
| Watering Needs | Low |
- Description
- Key Plant Features
The Crassula mesembrianthemopsis is a compact, drought-tolerant succulent known for its unusual, almost alien-like appearance and low-growing habit. It thrives both as a potted specimen indoors and as part of rock gardens in arid climates, where it adds a curious and sculptural texture.
Native to the southern parts of Namibia and South Africa, the Crassula mesembrianthemopsis has chubby, cylindrical leaves, which are covered in fine, silvery hairs that give it a velvety texture and help reduce water loss.
These leaves often grow in tight clusters, giving the plant a soft, cloud-like appearance.
Mature plants stay low and spread, usually reaching around 4 inches tall and about 6 inches wide, forming a dense mat over time.
Its soft silver sheen not only serves a functional purpose but also makes it stand out in any succulent collection.
Tiny star-shaped flowers may appear at the tips of the plant during late summer or fall, typically in white to pale pink shades.
While not particularly showy, the flowers add a delicate contrast to the textured foliage and signal the plant’s maturity and seasonal rhythm. Blooming is more likely when the plant experiences a temperature shift between day and night or a seasonal dry period.
For care, Crassula mesembrianthemopsis prefers bright, indirect light indoors or filtered full sun outdoors. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially during morning hours, but harsh afternoon sun can scorch the leaves. Use a gritty, well-drained succulent soil mix. Water infrequently but deeply, allowing the soil to dry out entirely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Indoors, the plant does best in temperatures between 60–75°F, and should be protected from frost.
Outdoors, it is hardy to about USDA zones 10–11, where it can be grown year-round in rock gardens or containers.
Fertilize sparingly, no more than once a year during spring, with a diluted NPK fertilizer (5-10-5).
Pruning is rarely needed, but you can pinch off leggy stems to maintain its compact shape.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Crassula mesembrianthemopsis is a rare and charming succulent that appeals to collectors and minimalist gardeners alike. With proper care, it thrives in both indoor containers and warm-climate outdoor arrangements. Its unique form, low maintenance needs, and drought resistance make it an excellent choice for succulent enthusiasts looking for something a little different.
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Resistance
Sun Exposure
Watering Needs
| Bloom Season | Late summer |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Crassula mesembrianthemopsis |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Flower Color | Pale pink |
| Genus | Crassula |
| Growth Habit | Rosette |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 4 in. tall, 6 in. wide |
| Native Area | Namibia, South Africa |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Propagation | By cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, heat tolerant, pest resistance |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | Succulents potting mix soil |
| Special Features | Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats |
| Watering Needs | Low |
Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features
| Bloom Season | Late summer |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Crassula mesembrianthemopsis |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Flower Color | Pale pink |
| Genus | Crassula |
| Growth Habit | Rosette |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 10, 11 |
| Mature Size | 4 in. tall, 6 in. wide |
| Native Area | Namibia, South Africa |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Propagation | By cuttings |
| Resistance | Extremely drought-tolerant, heat tolerant, pest resistance |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | Succulents potting mix soil |
| Special Features | Easy to maintain |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun) |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats |
| Watering Needs | Low |
