Jade Buttons

Jade Buttons (Crassula perforata), also sold as string of buttons, is a chubby succulent that stacks fat, angular leaves into necklace-like columns. It grows about 20cm tall and 30cm wide, and the geometric tails of leaves lengthen slowly as the plant matures. It is neat enough for a bedside table or kitchen sill, and tough enough for a rockery.

Why you'll love it

• Geometric, button-like leaves. Each pair of fat green leaves sits at right angles to the pair below, so the stems build into tidy, patterned columns.
• Slow, satisfying growth. You can watch the tails of leaves form and lengthen as the plant settles in and matures.
• Bigger and greener than Jade Necklace. It is the larger, greener relative, with more body to the columns.
• Small enough for a shelf. At 20cm by 30cm it suits a pretty pot on a bedside table or kitchen windowsill.
• Waterwise. Hardy and drought tolerant once established, with no need for fuss.

Where it works best

Windowsills and shelves. A decorative pot with drainage holes on a bright sill makes the most of the stacked shape.

Terrariums and dish gardens. Its tidy habit suits open glass bowls and mixed succulent dishes.

Rockeries and xeriscape beds. Plant 25cm apart in sun and free-draining soil, and let the columns knit together.

Growing Jade Buttons in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun gives the best colour and the most compact shape, and it grows taller in low light. It suits subtropical, warm temperate, Mediterranean and arid or semi-arid gardens. In humid climates, pots and raised beds give the drainage it needs. Frost can damage succulent leaves, so protect it in frosty districts.

Soil. Free-draining soil. Use a succulent and cactus mix in pots, or dig coarse sand or gravel into garden beds.

Water and feed. Water regularly until established, usually around 12 weeks. After that, water when the soil has dried out. A sunny position for at least part of the day keeps the columns tight.

Pruning. None required. Remove any shrivelled leaves from the base and leave the columns to build up.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Jade Buttons as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Availability depends on our grower. When the grower has no tube stock it shows as sold out, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it is back. A young plant starts as a small stack of leaves, and the tails lengthen with time and light.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Jade plants and crassulas
• Succulents and cacti
• Plants for pots
• Watering 101: how to water well

Common questions

Why is my string of buttons stretching?

Low light. It grows taller and looser when it does not get enough sun, so move it to a brighter position.

How should I water it?

Water regularly while it establishes, usually around 12 weeks, then only when the soil is dry. Overwatering is the main risk.

Can I plant it in the garden?

Yes, in a sunny, free-draining bed. Where winters are frosty, keep it in a pot so you can move it under cover.