Crassula deceptor is a succulent plant native to South Africa and Namibia. Covering such a wide range the forms differ, although it is often described as a dwarf, columnar succulent.

A few common names including ‘Alabaster Towers’ hint at the colour and form of one of the most widely grown forms.
Best described as having silver grey to white leaves that are stacked to form a column. This is a low growing species that will readily set pups or offsets and quickly form a clump under good growing conditions.

How to Grow Crassula deceptor
Its natural habitat is in rocky and dry, so semi desert and the extremes of heat and cold as well as dry conditions.
Position
Best grown outdoors in full sun to a little afternoon shade. Good amounts of sun are required for the best foliage colour and formation. The extremes afternoon sun is best avoided.
Soil
A free draining cactus and succulent potting mix should be adequate as long as the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Watering
A wet/dry cycle is important, after well and then let the soil dry. In summer, a good watering every 4 – 5 days should be adequate, more often in very hot areas.
In the colder months cut back on watering, once a month or even not at all in winter.
Fertiliser
Over fertilising C. Deceptor can result in foliage growth that detracts from the smooth look of the plant.
Fertilise once a year only in spring with a specialist succulent fertiliser.
Temperature range
In winter, daytime temperatures should reach at least 10C. A good temperature range is from 15 to 27C
Avoid cold wet conditions. In these climates grow Crassual deceptor indoors over winter and colder months.
Other Information
- Crassula deceptor will flower in late summer, however it may flower at other times of the year when grown in containers or indoors.
- The species name ‘deceptor’ refers to the plants ability to blend in with the rocks around it, so an imposter, if you like.
- The Genus name, Crassula means Fat
- This is one of many ‘Stacked Crassulas’