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 perfoliata var. minor, known by the common names airplane plant and propeller plant, is a striking, drought tolerant and cold hardy succulent plant indigenous to South Africa. Its overlapping grey-blue-green leaves are sickle-shaped (like propellers or the wings of an airplane). They have a remarkable velvety-fuzzy texture and grow 10 to 12cm long by about 2.5cm wide. Crassula perfoliata var. minor plants grow to 60cm tall. Their small scarlet red flowers grow in a large cluster, rising dramatically above the plants’ leaves in summer, giving a beautiful showing for 6 to 8 weeks. The scented flowers smell like cinnamon and can bloom twice per year, attracting birds and butterflies. It is attractive both in bloom and when not in bloom. It is a great xeriscape plant, growing well in full sun to part shade, both in gardens and containers. It is cold hardy to at least minus 6°Celsius.