SafePlants

Crassula aquatica: A Delicate Aquatic Succulent

Crassula aquatica, a member of the Crassulaceae (Stonecrop) family, is a small, intriguing succulent found in aquatic and semi-aquatic environments. It's known by several common names, reflecting its diminutive size and habitat.

Common Names

• Water Pygmyweed
• Common Pygmyweed
• Pygmyweed
• Common Pigmyweed
• Wrinkle-seed Pygmyweed

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Crassula aquatica (L.) Schoenl.
• Family: Crassulaceae (Stonecrop family)
• Genus: Crassula (from the Latin "crassus," meaning "solid, thick, dense, fat, gross," referring to the succulent leaves)
• Species: aquatica (from the Latin referring to its watery habitat)
• Synonym: Tillaea aquatica, Tillaea Bulliardia

Distribution and Habitat

Crassula aquatica is an annual plant found in salt marshes, vernal pools, and water bodies or terrestrial areas around pond or lake margins. One rediscovery was recorded in Charles Co., Maryland, and it has been seen in McAfee Meadow, White Mountains, Inyo National Forest, elevation 3580 m (11750 ft).

Morphological Characteristics

Crassula aquatica is a succulent annual plant.

Quirky Facts

• It was feared to be extirpated in Maryland until its rediscovery.

Related Species

The text mentions Crassula helmsii, also known as New Zealand Pygmyweed or Australian Swamp Stonecrop. This species is a perennial pond plant and a non-native invasive species.

Ecological Role

• New Zealand Pygmyweed (Crassula helmsii) is identified as an invasive aquatic plant that can rapidly spread and dominate its environment. It is even listed under Schedule 9 to the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

Further Information

For more information, consult online plant databases and resources from institutions like UCSC Natural Reserves and Dave's Garden. The Species Status Advisory Committee, and Plantlife may also provide useful information.