SafePlants

Crassula sarcocaulis: The Bonsai Crassula

Crassula sarcocaulis, commonly known as Bonsai Crassula, is a succulent sub-shrub celebrated for its tree-like appearance and adaptability. It's a popular choice for both beginner gardeners and bonsai enthusiasts.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant has fleshy stems and leaves.
• Peeling bark is present on the trunk and branches of more mature plants.
• Crassula species are succulents, and some succulents contain saps or other substances.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Crassula sarcocaulis Eckl. & Zeyh.
• Common Names: Bonsai Crassula, Bonsai Jade
• Family: Crassulaceae
• Synonyms/Varieties: Crassula sarcocaulis var. mlanjiana R. Femandes, Crassula sarcocaulis subsp. rupicola Toelken, Crassula sarcocaulis subsp. sarcocaulis

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to mountainous regions of Southern Africa, extending from Zambia to Mozambique and Swaziland, and the eastern Cape Province to northern Transvaal in South Africa.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A small, evergreen, succulent sub-shrub reaching 250-400 mm in height.
• It exhibits a tree-like form with a single main stem.
• Features narrow, elliptical, deep green leaves that may have red tints in sunny conditions. Leaves are typically around 1cm long.
• The bark peels on the trunk and branches, especially as the plant matures.
• Produces star-shaped white or pink flowers (or creamy-yellow in some instances). Crimson buds precede the pink flowers. A white-flowering form is known as Crassula sarcocaulis 'Alba'.

Quirky Facts

• Some sources list this Crassula as summer-flowering, but actual bloom times can vary.
• In some regions, the plant has been known to readily self-seed.
• Local names for subspecies of this Crassula include Serelilenyane or Umadinsane.

Ecological Role

• Can thrive in alpine/gravel gardens, indicating a tolerance for well-draining conditions.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Susceptible to spider mites.

Cultivation

• Ideal for sunny positions with free-draining soil.
• Requires light to moderate watering; avoid overwatering.
• Tolerates cold and wet winter conditions, particularly in a sunny location. Some sources claim it to be the only truly hardy Crassula in the British climate.
• Drought Tolerant and Fire Resistant, making it suitable for container planting.
• Suitable for growing in rock gardens or pots.
• Responds well to pruning, especially for bonsai shaping.

Further Information

• Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
• International Plant Names Index
• Catalogue of Life
• Wikimedia Commons
• Encyclopedia of Life (EOL)