(Photograph = Crassula columnaris, Martin Heigen)
Introduction
Crassula species are typically succulent and come from arid areas. Their leaf shapes, arrangements, and colors are often unusual. Many grow easily as pot plants and are cultured throughout the world.
The Details
PlantzAfrika reports that “Crassulas have a special way of reducing water loss from their leaves without limiting their ability to photosynthesise.” They do this by opening their stomates at night when temperatures are cooler. Thus, they get the CO2 that they need but not during the heat of the day when water would leak out the stomates. This adaptation allows Crassula species to inhabit many xeric places.
Another adaptation to heat and drought is the succulent growth of many Crassula species. Additionally, some of the plants have leaves that are are arranged to shade each other–this may prevent loss of water as one leaf shades another. Furthermore, some Crassula species are covered in hairs that many help prevent water loss.
Crassula species often make good house plants. A variety of plants are available from MesaGarden (mesagarden.com).
Additional Reading: Crassulaceae
