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 tecta, commonly known as Lizard Skin Crassula in English and Akkedisvel in Afrikaans is a diminutive and attractive grey-leaved succulent that is easy to grow and makes a great pot plant. It is a South African endemic species from the Eastern Cape and Western Cape Provinces. This curious dwarf species is somewhat more succulent than other members of the genus Crassula. It adopts a curious survival strategy by camouflaging itself with a rough, white, frosty coating on its leaves that not only allows it to effectively blend in with its gravelly environment but also makes it somewhat unpalatable to animals.