Crassula Buddha’s Temple is hands down one of the most fascinating succulents I’ve grown. A hybrid between Crassula Pyramidalis and Crassula Perfoliata Var. Minor, this architectural marvel earns its name from its resemblance to an ancient pagoda or stacked temple.
I’ve received countless questions about it—how to care for it, how it compares to other succulents, and why it’s so unique. So, I’ve compiled the most common questions I get about Crassula Buddha’s Temple and answered them based on my experience. I’ll keep it concise, plainspoken, and relevant—just how I like it.
What Is Crassula Buddha’s Temple?
Crassula Buddha’s Temple is a rare succulent hybrid. It’s formed by the cross of Crassula Pyramidalis and Crassula Perfoliata var. Minor (also called Crassula Falcata). The result is a plant with leaves tightly stacked in square columns, creating a temple-like shape. Each leaf is gray-green, with edges lined in red when grown in full sun.
What makes it stand out is its compact symmetry. It almost doesn’t look real. I often get asked if it’s a 3D-printed plant. No—it’s all natural.
How Big Does Crassula Buddha’s Temple Get?
It stays compact. Mine have topped out at about 6 inches tall and 2 inches wide. It’s a slow grower and perfect for small spaces, windowsills, or mini succulent gardens. Just don’t expect it to fill out a big pot quickly—it’s a plant that rewards patience.
What Light Does It Need?
Crassula Buddha’s Temple needs bright, indirect light, but can also tolerate some direct sun. I keep mine near a south-facing window with sheer curtains. Too little light makes it stretch and lose that tight geometric form. Too much harsh sun can scorch the leaves.
How Do You Water It?
Less is more. I follow the soak-and-dry method. I let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the biggest mistake with this plant. Its roots are shallow, and it doesn’t like soggy soil.
I water mine about every 2–3 weeks indoors. In winter, even less.
What’s the Best Soil Mix?
It needs well-draining soil. I mix 50% cactus soil with 50% perlite or pumice. Good airflow at the roots is crucial. Avoid moisture-retentive mixes—this isn’t a Calathea.
How Do You Propagate Crassula Buddha’s Temple?
Propagation is tricky. Unlike most Crassula, leaf propagation rarely works. I’ve had the most success with stem cuttings when the plant gets leggy or damaged. Let the cuttings callus for a day or two before planting. Rooting takes time, so be patient.
Does It Bloom?
Yes, but rarely indoors. Outdoors, it might produce pink to red flowers at the crown. Honestly, I grow it for the shape, not the bloom. When it does flower, it signals the rosette may age out—sometimes even die back after.
What Makes It Different From Crassula Pyramidalis?
Crassula Pyramidalis is one of its parents. I’ve grown both, and here’s the difference:
- Crassula Pyramidalis has a looser stack and thinner leaves.
- Crassula Buddha’s Temple is more symmetrical, tighter, and chunkier.
Think of Buddha’s Temple as the refined, ornamental version of Pyramidalis. If Pyramidalis is a cottage, Buddha’s Temple is a cathedral.
How Does It Compare to Crassula Falcata (Airplane Plant)?
Crassula Falcata (the other parent) is much larger with broader, curved leaves and bright red flowers. Its leaves grow in pairs that twist slightly—like airplane propellers.
Buddha’s Temple takes the compactness of Pyramidalis and the color traits from Falcata, but none of the sprawl. It’s the best of both worlds in a compact body.
Is Crassula Buddha’s Temple Rare?
Yes. It’s not commonly found in garden centers. I got mine from a specialty nursery. Online stores like Etsy or rare succulent shops are your best bet. It’s worth hunting down if you’re into rare succulents or geometry in nature.
What Are Common Problems?
I’ve faced a few:
- Overwatering: Causes rot and collapse.
- Underwatering: Leads to leaf shrinkage and fading color.
- Insufficient light: Causes stretching.
- Pests: Mealybugs love to hide in the leaf crevices.
Inspect regularly and adjust watering and lighting as needed. With the right care, it stays pristine.
Can It Grow Outdoors?
Only if you live in USDA Zones 10–11. It doesn’t handle frost well. I grow mine indoors year-round and take it outside only in summer. If you try growing it outdoors, keep it sheltered from rain.
Is It Pet-Safe?
No. Like most Crassulas, it’s toxic to pets. I keep mine out of reach from curious cats and dogs.
Final Thoughts: Why I Love It
Crassula Buddha’s Temple is more than a succulent—it’s a living sculpture. Every time I look at mine, I appreciate how nature engineered something so precise. It’s a minimalist’s dream, a succulent collector’s gem, and a plant that starts conversations.
If you want a low-maintenance, compact plant with high visual impact, this is it.
If i die, water my plants!
