Plate No. 44

Watch Chain

Crassula muscosa

"Interlocking scales like an heirloom chain"

Native to

Southern Africa, from Namibia to the Cape

Botanical illustration of Watch Chain
Crassula muscosa — drawn from life
History

A brief account

Watch Chain is a small, intriguing succulent whose tightly stacked, triangular leaves make each stem look like a miniature braided chain. Also known as Zipper Plant or Princess Pine, it was carried to European conservatories in the 18th century as an unusual curiosity and has remained popular ever since. Its neat, architectural growth gives it a very distinctive appearance, especially when the stems are allowed to trail or spill over a container. It feels both delicate and precise, with a charm that is hard to mistake for any other plant.

How to care for

Place Watch Chain according to its light needs: Bright indirect light with a little direct sun. For watering, every two weeks in growth; sparingly in winter. For the potting medium, use standard succulent mix. Good drainage is essential: let surplus water escape freely and never leave the roots standing in a wet saucer. 5–30°C. Light frost survivable. Check the compost before watering instead of following a rigid calendar, since light, temperature, pot size and season all affect how quickly it dries. During slower growth, reduce watering and wait longer between drinks.

How to propagate

Any snapped stem will root where it lands. Propagation is most reliable during the plant's active growing season, when warmth and good light help new roots establish. Start with clean tools and healthy material, and keep the new plant in conditions appropriate for the parent. Where a cutting or division creates a wound, allow the surface to dry before planting unless the method calls for immediate rooting in water or moist mix. Once roots form and fresh growth appears, gradually move the young Watch Chain into its normal watering routine; excess moisture is especially risky while the root system is still small.
Cultivation

Quick tips for care & planting

Light
Bright indirect light with a little direct sun.
Water
Every two weeks in growth; sparingly in winter.
Soil
Standard succulent mix.
Temperature
5–30°C. Light frost survivable.
Propagation
Any snapped stem will root where it lands.