Name
Classifications and Characteristics
| Plant Division | Angiosperms (Flowering Seed Plants) |
|---|---|
| Plant Growth Form | Shrub |
| Lifespan (in Singapore) | Perennial |
Biogeography
| Native Distribution | South Africa |
|---|
Description and Ethnobotany
| Growth Form | A low-growing succulent with upright growth habit, usually grows up to 60cm tall. |
|---|---|
| Foliage | Fleshy, curved leaves are arranged radially and overlap each other to form a propeller-like pattern. |
| Stems | The stem is usually unbranched, becoming woody with age. |
| Flowers | Bright orange-red or scarlet-red flowers are tiny and fragrant. They are arranged in dense clusters known as cymes. The inflorescence is borne on long stalks and held high above the foliage. |
| Habitat | ccurs in a wide range of habitats from deserts to wetlands and often found in rocky quartz fields. Usually found in open areas and exposed to direct sun. |
| Cultivation | This species requires moist and well-drained soil (humus and sand in the ratio of 2:1 or standard cactus soil), thriving in semi-shade to full sun. If the flowers are not desired, they can be removed to promote bushy, vigorous growth. After several years, it tends to become untidy and cutting short or restart from cuttings is encouraged. Feed with half-strength liquid fertilizer. |
| Etymology | The genus "Crassula" is derived from the Classic Latin word "Crassus" meaning fat or stout, referring to the thick leaves. The species epithet "falcata" originates from the Latin word "falcatus" meaning sickle-shaped which describes the curved leaf shape. |
Landscaping Features
| Desirable Plant Features | Ornamental Flowers, Ornamental Foliage |
|---|---|
| Landscape Uses | Interiorscape/ Indoor Plant, Container Planting |
| Thematic Landscaping | Rockery / Desert Garden |
Plant Care and Propagation
| Light Preference | Full Sun |
|---|---|
| Water Preference | Little Water |
| Propagation Method | Stem Cutting, Leaf Cutting |
Foliar
| Mature Foliage Texture(s) | Smooth |
|---|---|
| Foliar Shape(s) | Non-Palm Foliage |
| Mature Foliage Colour(s) Remarks | Greyish green |
Floral (Angiosperm)
| Flower Colour(s) | Red |
|---|---|
| Flower Colour(s) Remarks | Orange-red |
Image Repository
Others
| Master ID | 30691 |
|---|---|
| Species ID | 5003 |
| Flora Disclaimer | The information in this website has been compiled from reliable sources, such as reference works on medicinal plants. It is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment and NParks does not purport to provide any medical advice. Readers should always consult his/her physician before using or consuming a plant for medicinal purposes. |
