Rufous Stonecrop

(Crassula decumbens)

Rufous Stonecrop (Crassula decumbens)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Crassula decumbens image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Crassula decumbens, commonly known as rufous stonecrop or cape crassula, is a succulent perennial herb native to South Africa, particularly the Western Cape, where it thrives in rocky outcrops and slopes in fynbos vegetation, a shrubland or heathland ecosystem. This plant typically forms mats with decumbent stems that can reach up to 6 inches in length, and it has fleshy, linear-lanceolate leaves that are adapted to store water. The rufous stonecrop blooms from July to October, producing small, star-shaped cream-white to pink flowers that are moderately showy.

In cultivation, Crassula decumbens is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens, succulent collections, and as ground cover in xeriscaped areas. It requires minimal maintenance, needing only occasional watering once established. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. While generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and fungal diseases if overwatered or in poorly drained soils. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.1-0.3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to rocky outcrops and slopes in fynbos vegetation of the Western Cape, South Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Spreading Crassula, Pink Carpet Crassula

Scientific Names: , Crassula decumbens, Bulliarda trichotoma, Crassula langebaanensis, Crassula langebergensis, Crassula leipoldtii, Crassula macrantha, Crassula macrantha var. nuda, Crassula mongolica, Crassula ovallei

GBIF Accepted Name: