Crassula perforata aka String Of Buttons

Taxonomy

Crassula perforata, also known as string of buttons or molded wax agave, is a succulent plant that is native to the Cape Provinces and KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. This small and compact succulent is easily formed into bushes and has short triangular leaves that spiral around its long rambling stems. It is a low maintenance plant that can handle long periods of drought, making it perfect for beginner flower growers. However, providing an appropriate environment for it to form flowers can be quite difficult to achieve in room conditions. Plants in the Crassula genus are incredibly diverse and come in an assortment of sizes and colors, with many of them being native to a small region in South Africa. To keep them happy, make sure they get plenty of sunlight and are planted in a pot with a drainage hole.

Common names

String Of Buttons, Variegated, Kwa Zulu Natal

How to care for String Of Buttons

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, String Of Buttons is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

String Of Buttons does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

The String Of Buttons is very susceptible to soil that is too wet, so it's essential to choose a potting soil that drains well and does not retain excessive moisture. A soil mix that includes plenty of perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. You can easily create this type of soil by adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store.

Lighting

String Of Buttons requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your String Of Buttons will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for String Of Buttons plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Humidity

String Of Buttons prefers dry environments, but by misting the plant or providing extra humidity, water will linger on the leaves and create an ideal environment for fungi that could be harmful.

Fertilizer

The String Of Buttons is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

String Of Buttons’s native range is South Africa.


More info:
Wikipedia