Crassula subaphylla var. subaphylla

Crassula subaphylla var. subaphylla, a variety of the Louhout Stonecrop, is a succulent species of the family Crassulaceae. It is native to the semi-arid Karoo regions of South Africa and Namibia, where it occurs on rocky slopes, open woodland, and well-drained, semi-arid sites.

The species forms erect, multistemmed subshrubs, typically 15–30 cm tall, though it can reach up to 60 cm when scrambling through surrounding vegetation. The stems are woody and brittle at the base, with greyish-brown peeling bark, while the younger branchlets are fleshy, reddish-brown, and puberulous. Internodes are short, and lateral branching contributes to a dense to sparse habit depending on growing conditions. This variety of the Louhout Stonecrop forms small leaves – highly variable in shape, size, indumentum, and color. They are generally triangular-lanceolate to triangular-ovate and green to grey-green or reddish-green. The leaf surfaces range from flat to convex above and convex below, with acute apices. Leaves are brittle and caducous, falling easily when touched—a characteristic feature of this species. Inflorescences are terminal thyrses composed of numerous dichasia. Flowers are tubular, cream to rose-colored, with lobes shortly fused at the base. They attract insect pollinators and develop into small, dry capsules that release tiny seeds adapted for dispersal by wind. Vegetative propagation for Crassula subaphylla var. subaphylla is highly effective, as the genus readily resprouts from cuttings or damaged stems.

All Stonecrop species prefer full sun to light partial shade and thrive in well-drained, sandy, or rocky soils. Crassula subaphylla var. subaphylla is moderately drought-tolerant but sensitive to prolonged waterlogging, which can cause stem rot. It can tolerate brief drops in temperature down to approximately –2 °C.

The compact, multistemmed growth habit and drought resilience make this variety well suited for rock gardens, succulent collections, xerophytic landscaping, and container cultivation. Mature shrubs develop dense branching that requires sufficient space to allow air circulation and proper growth.

Crassula subaphylla var. subaphylla can be observed in the succulent section of the Expositional Greenhouse at the University Botanical Garden – Balchik. During the upcoming season, many other Crassula species will also be in bloom, highlighting the diversity of this important succulent genus.