The genus Crassula is one of the most diverse succulent genera, varying from tiny moss-like annual plants to 2m tall succulent trees like Crassula ovata. Belonging to the Crassulaceae family, there are more than 300 Crassula species of which approx. 150 are found in southern Africa, where they are widespread but concentrated in the semi-arid winter-rainfall areas. The centre of distribution of this genus is in southern Africa, but they extend beyond Africa into Europe, America, Australia, New Zealand and the southern islands. The name Crassula is the diminutive of the Latin crassus which means thick or fat, referring to the fleshy nature of the genus as a whole. This popular genus offers an extensive array of sizes, growing forms and textures making them perfect for landscaping, rockeries, windowsill plants or to be grown in containers. They can also be grown indoors as house plants. Those that make excellent house plants are the glossy leaf varieties. Crassulas, given a rich, well-drained medium will grow fast and luxuriantly.

Crassula cotyledonis, synonymously known as Crassula canescens var. latifolia, Crassula canescens, Crassula cephalophora, Crassula cephalophora var. dubia, Crassula cephalophora var. tayloriae, Crassula dubia, Crassula rehmanni, Crassula tayloriae, Globulea obvallata or Purgosea cotyledonis and commonly known as Bergplakkie is a South African endemic perennial succulent found growing in the Eastern Cape, Northern Cape and Western Cape Provinces. Crassula cotyledonis is a low growing succulent that can reach up to 15 cm tall. Its grey green leaves are flat, rounded, paddle-shaped, grown in rosettes and covered with fine short hairs. The leaves have red or purple margins. The whole leaves can also turn vibrant red when stressed in cold temperatures. From spring to summer, Crassula cotyledonis produces clusters of small, butterfly attracting, cream to yellow tubular flowers from each stem.