Crassula ernestii is a delightful petite groundcover, growing up to only 5cm in height. The fleshy pyramid shaped leaves are tightly stacked together and covered with fine white hairs, giving the plant an iridescent appearance. This charming plant produces petite white star-shaped flowers, adding a touch of delicacy to its overall appearance.
This perennial plant is happy in either full sun or part shade, making it a versatile addition to a variety of gardens. It's particularly wonderful in rockeries and potted succulent gardens, as well as miniature gardens as a mini shrub.
Crassula ernestii is native to the northern parts of the Eastern Cape, slightly further south than var. lanuginosa, between Graaff-Reinet, Somerset East, and Queenstown. It grows in crevices on rock outcrops and often among boulders.
The leaves of this plant are of an elliptic to obovate shape, being dorsiventrally flattened or somewhat convex on both sides. They are adorned with recurved, largely adpressed hairs, and the leaf margins typically have longer cilia.The inflorescence produces 7 – 12 (-15) flowers that are almost sessile, with a corolla 3 – 4 mm long. Crassula ernestii blooms from January to March.
Named after the collector Ernest E. Galpin, this plant's scientific name, Crassula ernestii, reflects its thick fleshy succulent leaves. Its synonym, Crassula lanuginosa var. pachystemon, was originally named Crassula pachystemon by Schönland & Baker f. in 1898. Though the names may be synonymous, Crassula lanuginosa var. pachystemon has somewhat larger leaves and other differences making the two varieties unique.
Overall, Crassula ernestii is a delightful and versatile plant that would make a lovely addition to any garden looking for a touch of delicacy and charm.
Crassula ernestii plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images 2 onward. First image for display only. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.