Cacti & Succulents

Cultivating and Tending to String of Buttons

Posted on by JAMES

Delve into the realm of Crassula perforata, commonly known as string of buttons, a succulent that thrives both indoors and outdoors. Allow Rachel Garcia to guide you through the process of nurturing this charming plant.

Aesthetically pleasing, Crassula perforata is an excellent choice for novice gardeners, showcasing a palette ranging from green to pink hues. Its distinctive chunky leaves spiral elegantly around the stem, embodying its moniker – string of buttons. This captivating succulent adds a touch of allure to any environment it graces.

String of buttons proves to be adaptable, flourishing in terrariums and rock gardens. Its sprawling nature makes it a perfect fit for ground cover and hanging baskets. When cultivated outdoors, it acts as a magnet for fluttering butterflies and hummingbirds.

As you contemplate nurturing Crassula perforata, familiarize yourself with this succulent that exudes charm like no other.

Insight

This succulent showcases a diverse range of colors and structures.
Type of Plant
Succulent

Family
Crassulaceae

Genus
Crassula

Species
Crassula perforata

Exposure
Partial sun

Height
12′-24′

Watering Needs
Low

Maintenance
Low
Soil Type
Succulent mix

Overview of String of Buttons

Close up of a plant with button-like leaves
Fast-growing plants that seamlessly blend into any garden terrain.

Crassula perforata, known as pagoda plant or necklace vine, grows rapidly, with stems clustering and creeping over other plants, sometimes even through neighboring bushes.

When mature, this plant surprises with small, star-shaped flowers in spring. Flowers can be yellow, white, or pink. Providing a slight night and day temperature difference can enhance blooming, along with a cold but above-freezing winter temperature.

Hailing from South Africa, Crassula perforata thrives in warm climates. Ideal for USDA Zones 9-11, it also makes an excellent houseplant in colder regions.

Crassula Perforata Varieties

Close up of string of buttons with dark green leaves and red edges
With hundreds of species to choose from, there is a variety to suit every garden and style.

The Crassula genus boasts around 200 species, with several sharing common names like string of buttons. Here are two common varieties of the perforata species.

Crassula perforata ‘Variegata’

Close up of string of buttons with striped leaves
Distinctive for its stripes and color variations.

The ‘Variegata’ variety of Crassula perforata showcases various colors ranging from green to yellow to pink, with some featuring rainbow-like edges or stripes.

Crassula perforata ssp. kougaensis

Top view and close up of several stems with stacked, plump, pointed leaves that fade from light green to red around the edges.
Top view and close up of several stems with stacked, plump, pointed leaves that fade from light green to red around the edges.
This variety is known for its pink edges and speckled dots.

This subspecies displays typical features with vibrant reddish-pink edges surrounding leaves that are also adorned with pink or white dots.

Crassula perforata vs Crassula conjuncta

Long stem in a small planter with plump, triangle shaped leaves.
Long stem in a small planter with plump, triangle shaped leaves.
This variety is often mistaken for Crassula conjuncta.

Crassula perforata is often mistaken for Crassula conjuncta due to slight leaf differences. These plants share similar care requirements, but for the purposes of this article, we will focus on the C. perforata species.

Planting

Hand holding a small potted plant with three small stems with stacked, plump triangle shaped leaves.
Hand holding a small potted plant with three small stems with stacked, plump triangle shaped leaves.
These succulents can tolerate indoor or outdoor climates.

Commonly cultivated in containers, these compact plants thrive whether grown indoors or outdoors. This flexibility enables relocation to a sheltered area for those enduring colder weather conditions during winter. For individuals residing in USDA Zone 9 and above with warmer climates, direct outdoor planting is suitable.

It is advisable to select a sunny spot with well-drained soil for planting. In cases where the existing soil lacks adequate drainage, enrich it with compost and sand before planting to enhance both drainage and soil quality. When using containers, consider incorporating perlite and sand to standard potting mix or opt for a specialized succulent and cacti mix.

During planting, ensure it matches the original depth of the plant, as excessive depth can induce rot. To eliminate air pockets, gently press around the base and water post-planting to settle the roots. Caution is advised against overwatering during the initial growth phase to prevent root rot.

How to Grow

Close up of a square terracotta planter with a green succulent plant inside.
Close up of a square, terracotta planter with a green succulent plant inside.
For those seeking plants that require little attention, the string of buttons is a perfect choice thanks to its simple care routine.

The string of buttons plant aligns with typical succulent care requirements, making it a breeze to nurture after an initial learning curve.

Light

Close up of dozens of stems with layers of plump, round leaves stacking up each stem.
Close up of dozens of stems with layers of plump, round leaves stacking up each stem.
The vibrancy of these plants intensifies with increased exposure to sunlight, although care should be taken to avoid burning the leaves with direct sun and high temperatures. Optimal locations include areas with partial afternoon shade in predominantly sunny spots. Alternatively, filtered or indirect light can be suitable. For indoor cultivation, a south-facing window is recommended for optimal growth.

String of buttons demands four to six hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive and showcase its full spectrum of colors.

To prevent shock from sudden lighting changes, acclimatize your Crassula perforata gradually whenever modification is necessary.

Water

Close up of bright green, small, plump leaves stacked on top of each other on their stems with water puddled and dripping off each leaf.
Close up of bright green, small, plump leaves stacked on top of each other on their stems with water puddled and dripping off each leaf.
Embrace the nature of these plants, which excel with minimal watering due to their proficient water storage in the leaves.

Crassula perforata benefits from modest watering habits, as overhydration can cause softening and decay of the succulent, while underwatering may lead to drooping and leaf shrinkage.

Only water the plant when the soil has completely dried out, erring on the side of caution when in doubt, as succulents tolerate underwatering better than overwatering.

Soil

Rows of small, black, pots filled with dirt and small plants with one stem in each container. Each plant has small, plump leaves stacked up each of their stems.
Rows of small, black, pots filled with dirt and small plants with one stem in each container. Each plant has small, plump leaves stacked up each of their stems.
To safeguard these plants from root rot, they should be planted in soil that facilitates proper drainage.

Optimal drainage is crucial for the well-being of Crassula perforata to prevent root rot that arises from excess water surrounding the roots.

You can utilize commercially available cactus and succulent soil that promotes good drainage, or blend perlite and sand into standard potting mix. Regularly inspect the soil for drainage efficiency, and introduce more sand if water retention is excessive.

While these plants are not overly particular about soil pH levels, they thrive in slightly acidic soil conditions.

Temperature & Humidity

Close up of a green plant with small, plum leaves stacked up its stem.
Close up of a green plant with small, plum leaves stacked up its stem.
When it gets frosty, it’s time to bring in your Sting of Button plant.

Optimal temperatures for Crassula perforata range around 65-70°F (18-21°C) in the warmer months and drop to 50°F (10°C) during winter if kept indoors due to cold sensitivity.

String of buttons prefers lower humidity levels. Ensure to water directly at the roots and provide ample ventilation to maintain its happiness.

Fertilizing

Close up of a bright green shovel scooping a pile of small, white pebbles.
Close up of a bright green shovel scooping a pile of small, white pebbles.
Adding fertilizer can aid your String of Button in blooming.

Fertilizing is beneficial for growth and blooms although not mandatory. Opt for half-strength liquid fertilizer monthly in the growing season. Young plants benefit from low-nitrogen, while mature ones thrive with balanced nutrients.

For an easy alternative, consider using controlled-release succulent fertilizer at the start of the growing season.

Maintenance

Close up of a woman's hands holding a small plant and a pair of small shears, getting ready to trim the plants stems.
Close up of a woman's hands holding a small plant and a pair of small shears, getting ready to trim the plants stems.
Maintain trimmings and pot upgrades as required to manage plant size.

To maintain plant aesthetics, trim off wilted flowers and long stems. As needed, prune for size control with clean, sterile clippers to prevent infections and dry the cuts post-trim.

When repotting due to outgrowth, ensure larger containers to accommodate the plant’s growth rate, especially at the onset of spring for ample space.

For any root issues during repotting, trim damaged parts, allow drying, and replace soil with better-draining medium.

Propagation


Explore various propagation methods available for succulents.

Crassula perforata offers options for propagation through cuttings, division, and offsets.

Propagation from Cuttings

Close up of a small plant in a small white pot, with several long stems that have small, plump leaves stacked down each stem.Close up of a small plant in a small white pot, with several long stems that have small, plump leaves stacked down each stem.
Propagating your String of Button can be as simple as sticking a freshly cut stem right into a pot of soil.

Start the propagation process by cutting off the top inch or more of a healthy plant for stem cuttings. Ensure to strip the bottom leaves, leaving half an inch of bare stem. For leaf cuttings, gently twist and remove the leaves without leaving any residue on the stem. Let the cuttings sit for a day or two to dry out before planting.

When planting, insert stem cuttings directly into well-draining soil, while laying leaf cuttings on top. Mist the cuttings with water, keeping them away from direct sunlight until they root. Using rooting hormone is beneficial but not mandatory.

As the cuttings establish, gradually increase their exposure to light and water them weekly until fully matured.

Propagation from Offsets

Close up of a clear jar with a tall, skinny stem with small, plump leaves stacked up the stem.Close up of a clear jar with a tall, skinny stem with small, plump leaves stacked up the stem.
Offsets are easy to remove and replant in any container with well-draining soil.

Offset propagation involves cutting off rosettes on long, thin stems that emerge above the ground, about an inch below the rosette.

Propagation by Divison

Close up, overview shot of a bright green plant in a garden with several long stems that have small, plump, triangle shaped leaves stacked up each stem.Close up, overview shot of a bright green plant in a garden with several long stems that have small, plump, triangle shaped leaves stacked up each stem.
When your String of Button gets too big or overcrowded, dividing up the stems at the root is a great way to thin it out and create more plants.

To divide a large string of buttons plant, gently remove it from the soil and separate the clump into two parts. Ensure to replant in dry soil and avoid watering for a few days to allow the wounds to dry and prevent rot or infections.

Common Problems

Three green succulent plants in pots, sitting in front of a large, bright window.
Three green succulent plants in pots, sitting in front of a large, bright window.
Proper care and knowledge can help keep your Crassula perforata flourishing and healthy.

Crassula perforata is prone to issues like any other plant, making readiness and keen observation crucial to its well-being.

Etiolation

Close up of a plant with four tall, skinny stems with small, plum leaves stacked up the stem with spaced in between each leaf.
Close up of a plant with four tall, skinny stems with small, plum leaves stacked up the stem with spaced in between each leaf.
Tall, leggy stems is a sign your String of Button needs more sun.

If you notice your succulent stretching, it may affect its appearance, given their valued plump and compact leaves. Gradually reposition it to a sunnier area, or if it’s already elongated, consider pruning the overextended stems.

Brown Spots

Close up of a bright green plant with several stems that have small, plump, triangle shaped leaves stacked up each stem.
Close up of a bright green plant with several stems that have small, plump, triangle shaped leaves stacked up each stem.
Too much direct sun can cause sunburn spots on your String of Buttons.

Summer may bring brown spots, indicative of sunburn from excessive heat and light exposure. Immediate relocation may prevent the damage from worsening, ensuring any harm remains superficial. Move your Crassula perforata gradually to help it acclimate to the light changes.

Drooping

Small orange pot with a green plants that has stems trailing over the sides of the pot. Plant has small, light green, plump leaves stacked down each stem.
Small orange pot with a green plants that has stems trailing over the sides of the pot. Plant has small, light green, plump leaves stacked down each stem.
Drooping or mushy leaves can be a sign that you’re either over or under watering your plant.

A wilted appearance and shriveled leaves indicate underwatering, while mushy or discolored leaves signal overwatering. Adjust your watering routine and soil conditions accordingly.

Pests

Close up of tiny green bugs crawling all over a bright green stem.
Insect pests such as aphids, vine weevil, and mealybugs may be found on your string of buttons plant.

Aphids, small pests of various colors, typically reside on the underside of leaves. The honeydew they produce can lead to the growth of black mold and attract ants.

If aphids cluster in one area, consider pruning the affected leaf or using insecticidal soap for control.

Crassula perforata is also prone to vine weevil infestations. These flightless black beetles cause clear damage, including c-shaped holes and yellow, wilting leaves. Combat them by sprinkling diatomaceous earth at the plant’s base and manually removing them at night.

Another common pest to watch for is mealybugs, small white insects that feed on plant sap. These can be eliminated with insecticidal soap or by individually targeting them with a cotton swab dipped in 70% rubbing alcohol.

Diseases

Close up of a potted plant with layers of plump leaves stacking up each stem.
Root rot, often caused by overwatering, poses a significant threat to the string of buttons plant and other succulents.

The most common threat to the string of buttons plant is root rot, which usually starts with overwatering and can progress to affect the stems and leaves. Infected areas typically turn brown or black and become mushy.

To address root rot, trim the affected parts, allow them to callous over, and then replant in well-draining soil without watering for a few days to aid recovery. If the roots are too damaged, you can propagate a new plant from a healthy cutting.

FAQs

Can you save an overwatered succulent?

To rescue an overwatered succulent, repot it in dry soil after removing the moist soil from the roots. Avoid watering for a few days until the plant recovers.

Why are the leaves falling off my succulent?

While old leaves at the bottom of succulents naturally drop off, newer green leaves falling may signal overwatering.

Final Thoughts

The charming string of buttons plant enriches both indoor and outdoor gardens. By understanding and addressing common issues promptly, you can ensure these succulents thrive beautifully.

JAMES
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JAMES

James is an environmental gardener and passionate writer who holds a master's degree in agriculture. He graduated from Harvard University with a degree in environmental horticulture and has a particular interest in soil composition. Currently, James works as a researcher in plant research, where he continues to explore and advance knowledge in his field. His combined expertise in environmental gardening and soil science helps him contribute valuable insights to both academic and practical gardening communities.

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