The Story
Plant Bio
Crassula perforata is a rambling succulent with stems that appear threaded through paired, triangular, gray-green leaves, creating a unique stacked appearance.
A low-growing, mat-forming cultivar with smaller leaves than the species. The foliage develops vibrant reddish-bronze hues in full sun and during cooler temperatures, creating a 'red carpet' effect.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
6 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Toxic to pets if ingested
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck small stones around the base for drainage and aesthetics.
- Mist cuttings regularly to encourage root growth.
- Ensure well-draining soil to prevent overwatering.
- Place in bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth.
- Water sparingly during winter months, about once a month.
- Transplant to a slightly larger pot when roots outgrow the current container.
Pro Tip
Use a cactus-specific soil mix for best drainage and root health.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water only when soil is completely dry 🌱
- Provide bright, indirect sunlight
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot
- Fertilize sparingly during the growing season
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Expose to direct harsh sunlight in the hottest part of the day
- Use heavy, non-draining soil
- Neglect to provide adequate light
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
String of Buttons questions
What zones can String of Buttons grow in?
String of Buttons is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is String of Buttons deer resistant?
Yes — String of Buttons is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does String of Buttons bloom?
String of Buttons typically blooms in spring to summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does String of Buttons need full sun?
String of Buttons does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is String of Buttons drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), String of Buttons handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Crassula to compare
Campfire Crassula
Crassula erosula 'Campfire'
Propeller Plant
Crassula falcata
Variegated Red Pagoda
Crassula pagoda 'Variegata'
Hobbit Jade Plant
Crassula ovata 'Hobbit'
Calico Kitten
Crassula ovata 'Calico Kitten'
Red Pagoda Plant Crassula Red Pagoda
Crassula capitella 'Red Pagoda'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow String of Buttons with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.