Tailor’s Patch Crassula

Tailor’s patch is a spreading succulent with fleshy, dull green leaves and heads of small whitish star-shaped flowers. [SANBI](https://pza.sanbi.org/crassula-lactea) describes Crassula lactea as a cliff-associated plant around 10 cm tall and 40 cm across, with trailing stems and persistent leaves. It differs from the more vigorous C. multicava in its thicker leaves and row of pale dots near their margins. Grow in light or dappled shade with excellent drainage. It suits a rockery, embankment or container in a mild climate; outside its native setting, a controlled container environment can be useful. Water thoroughly, then let the growing medium dry somewhat before watering again. Stem or leaf cuttings root readily, particularly in spring or summer. Root mealybugs may be a problem. Its South African flowering season is winter, with local timing dependent on climate. The [San Luis Obispo County January 2014 plant list](https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/departments/planning-building/forms-documents/environmental-forms-and-documents/plants-information/county-approved-plant-list) explicitly names Crassula lactea in its Crassula notes and assigns F2. This source category identifies its most fire-retardant plants for the 30–70-foot band from a structure. It is not a guarantee against burning. The county conditions the rating on suitable soil moisture, avoiding crowding, removing dead material, separated planting groups and preventing ground-to-canopy fuel connections. The rating belongs to the named identity, without extending it to other species or cultivars.