Crassula

plant genus

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July 15, 2026

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The genus Crassula belongs to the stonecrop family, Crassulaceae, which comprises about 30 genera and 1,400 species of perennial herbs or shrubs. These plants are widespread but concentrated in arid regions and are known for their thick, fleshy leaves and stems adapted for water storage. This adaptation is supported by a specialized photosynthetic system called Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM). The genus Crassula itself includes about 200 species, with the jade plant (Crassula ovata) being a well-known example native to South Africa. Some Crassula species have even evolved into aquatic plants.12

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Crassulaceae
Major genera
Crassula, with about 200 species, includes the commonly cultivated jade plant (Crassula ovata), which is native to South Africa. Surprisingly, some species of Crassula have evolved into aquatic plants. Sedum, with some 400 species known as stonecrops, contains many favourite rock-garden plants, and other species…
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Crassula, with about 200 species, includes the commonly cultivated jade plant (Crassula ovata), which is native to South Africa. Surprisingly, some species of Crassula have evolved into aquatic plants. Sedum, with some 400 species known as stonecrops, contains many favourite rock-garden plants, and other species…
Read More