String of Buttons | Crassula perforata

The String of Buttons is a charming South African succulent, loved for its stacked, triangular leaves edged in soft pink or red. The leaves spiral neatly around the stems, creating a geometric, button‑like effect that looks almost like a living necklace. In Cape Town’s climate, it thrives in full sun to semi‑shade and rewards gardeners with clusters of tiny, star‑shaped flowers in spring to early summer (September-November). This hardy succulent is perfect for rockeries, containers, hanging baskets, and water‑wise gardens, where its trailing stems spill gracefully over edges. It is low‑maintenance, drought‑tolerant, and adds year‑round interest with its unusual form and seasonal blooms. A delightful addition to any collection, the String of Buttons is both playful and architectural. 

Why You’ll Love It

• Unique stacked leaves with pink‑red edges.
• Evergreen succulent with year‑round appeal.
• Produces dainty star‑shaped flowers in spring.
• Hardy, drought‑tolerant, and easy to grow.
• Perfect for containers, rockeries, and trailing displays.

Plant & Care

Plant in well‑drained soil in full sun to semi‑shade. Water sparingly, allow soil to dry between waterings. Feed lightly with a succulent fertilizer in spring to encourage flowering. Trim back leggy stems to maintain a compact shape, or let them trail naturally for a cascading effect. Protect from heavy frost, though it tolerates Cape Town’s winters well.

Did You Know?

Crassula perforata is indigenous to South Africa and is part of the same family as the famous Crassula ovata (Money Plant). Its spiralling leaves are not just ornamental. They help the plant conserve water, making it perfectly adapted to dry conditions. Collectors prize it for its playful geometry and seasonal colour shifts, which make it look different throughout the year.