[3] Growing to 1 m (3.3 ft) tall by about as broad, this succulent, evergreen subshrub is known for its greyish-teal, sickle-shaped, thick foliage up to 90 x 28 mm, arranged in opposite rows, often with red markings, which emerges in a criss-cross or rosette formation, on an ever-lengthening, compact stem which may produce aerial roots and thus further spread the plant.

[5] It has inflorescences of brilliant profusions of scarlet blossoms in the summer, unlike many other Crassula species which are winter-blooming.

Coconut husk or fiber, potting soil, commercial orchid or cacti mixes, or organic compost are all acceptable as a base substrate, adding a small amount of earthworm castings (vermicompost) as a nutrition source; Crassula, like many succulents, are not heavy feeders and do not require intense or regular fertilisation—though it will not harm them, provided it is infrequent (monthly basis during growing season) and well-diluted.

Substrates for succulent species, such as Crassula, should be amended with inert (inorganic) materials to add aeration, such as perlite, pumice, gravel, decomposed granite, or sand, or a mixture.

It is also susceptible to damage from excessive sun exposure, which may show as scarring, burning or chlorotic or yellowing foliage.