About

Crassothonna capensis is a fast-growing, perennial succulent that features a woody base and slender, cylindrical leaves with a grey-green hue, resembling small pickles, which is reflected in its common name. When subjected to stress or variations in light, the foliage may display hues of yellow, purple, and red. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that resemble daisies, emerging from small, purple, pea-shaped buds, and they will close in dim conditions. This species is well-suited for use as ground cover or for trailing over pots and hanging baskets.

About the genus

This genus consists of flowering succulents characterized by cylindrical leaves that range in color from grey-green to red. They exhibit a trailing or spreading growth pattern, making them suitable for use as ground cover, in rock gardens, or as indoor plants. During the summer months, they produce flowers resembling daisies.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil pH

Acid

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H3

Plant details

Plant type

Cactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants

Habit

Trailing

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

Up to 10 cm

Spread

1-1.5 metres

Time to full height

2-5 years

Suggested uses

City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Hanging basket, Houseplants, Patio and container plants

Native to

South Africa (Cape)

Care notes

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained, acidic cactus and succulent soil in a bright, sunny location indoors or full sun or partial shade in a sheltered location outdoors. Exposure to direct sunlight will result in the plant becoming ruby red in colour; less light may make it greener and result in leggy growth. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further advice

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Propagate by stem cuttings

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free