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 ciliata, synonymously known as Purgosea ciliata or Sedum ciliatum, is a South African endemic species found in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape provinces ranging from the Cape Peninsula to Port Elizabeth growing on low gravelly slopes amongst fynbos. It is a perennial up to 20cm tall with opposite leaves that are oblong to elliptical with recurved marginal cilia in a dense row. The flowers, in rounded clusters, are cream coloured to yellow, tubular and about 4mm long.