Description
This is a sturdy, branched, compact, rounded, evergreen succulent shrub growing from 1 – 3 m tall. It has glossy, dark to grey-green oval leaves on short, stubby branches and a robust stem or trunk. The leaves are often edged with red, more so if the plant is in full sun. The flowers are pink and the flowering time varies according to the climate. The stems soon become gnarled and stout, suggesting great age. It is grown all over the world, most often as a pot plant. It is magical and believed to bring financial good luck. The khoi eat the roots. It attracts butterflies. Some of our landscapers call it ‘sprinkle spread’ as it’s ideal in areas where nothing else will grow. Give your plant a ‘haircut’ and sprinkle the bits. it will rapidly spread and thrive! This is the larval host plant for the Tailed Black-eye butterfly. Named from the Latin ‘crassus’= and ‘ula’= diminutive referring to the fleshy succulent leaves.
