Propeller Plant
(Crassula falcata)
Propeller Plant (Crassula falcata)
/
/
laredawg
PDM 1.0
Image By:
laredawg
Recorded By:
Copyright:
PDM 1.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: laredawg | License Type: PDM 1.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/ | Uploader: laredawg | Publisher: Flickr
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Crassula perfoliata var. minor, commonly known as Propeller Plant, is an evergreen succulent native to the rocky slopes and arid landscapes of South Africa. It typically grows up to 2 feet (0.61 m) tall and is characterized by its unique propeller-like leaf arrangement, with pairs of thick, gray-green leaves that are often tinged with red. The leaves have a waxy coating and a striking texture that adds to the plant’s ornamental value. During the summer, Propeller Plant produces dense clusters of tiny, scarlet red flowers that rise above the foliage, adding a splash of color for about a month. The flowers are quite showy and attract pollinators.
Propeller Plant is valued for its architectural form and is often used in drought-tolerant landscapes, succulent gardens, and as a distinctive container specimen. It thrives in full sun, requiring very low to low amounts of water, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardening. The plant prefers well-draining soil and is tolerant of poor fertility, making it easy to maintain. While it is generally pest-free, overwatering can lead to root rot. It is also sensitive to frost and needs protection in colder climates.CC BY-SA 4.0
Propeller Plant is valued for its architectural form and is often used in drought-tolerant landscapes, succulent gardens, and as a distinctive container specimen. It thrives in full sun, requiring very low to low amounts of water, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardening. The plant prefers well-draining soil and is tolerant of poor fertility, making it easy to maintain. While it is generally pest-free, overwatering can lead to root rot. It is also sensitive to frost and needs protection in colder climates.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 1-2 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Red
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Very Low, Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Rocky slopes and arid landscapes of South Africa
Other Names
Common Names: Airplane Plant, Propellerblad
Scientific Names: , Crassula falcata, Crassula perfoliata var. falcata, Rochea falcata, Crassula perfoliata var. minor, Larochea falcata, Crassula decussata, Crassula falx, Crassula retroflexa, Crassula swellingrebliana
GBIF Accepted Name: Crassula perfoliata var. minor (Haw.) G.D.Rowley