Crassulaceae
Worm Plant (Crassula marnieriana)
Crassula marnieriana
Easy-care succulent that thrives on neglect. Water sparingly, provide bright light, and plant in well-draining soil. Ideal for windowsills and succulent collections.
Every 14 days
Bright indirect
7° - 35°C
30% - 50%
Categories
What is Worm Plant?
Worm Plant (Crassula marnieriana) is a easy-care plant from the Crassulaceae family. Crassula marnieriana, commonly known as the Worm Plant or Jade Necklace, is a compact succulent native to South Africa. It forms distinctive rope-like stems of tightly stacked, fleshy round leaves that overlap in opposite pairs, creating a unique appearance. In spring, it produces delicate clusters...
Worm Plant grows up to 30cm, with spread of 20cm, watering every 14 days, 7°C – 35°C, 30–50% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Worm Plant tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Worm Plant is safe to keep around pets. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 28 days.
How to Care for Worm Plant?
TLDR: Worm Plant needs Bright indirect, watering every 14 days, and temperatures between 7-35°C with 30-50% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Worm Plant?
Use the soak-and-dry method: water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. In summer water every 10–14 days; in winter reduce to once a month.
How Much Light Does Worm Plant Need?
Provide bright indirect to direct light — at least 6 hours per day. A south- or east-facing window is ideal. In low light the stems etiolate and lose their compact stacked form.
What Is the Best Soil for Worm Plant?
Use a cactus or succulent mix with added perlite for extra drainage. Never use heavy potting soil that retains moisture.
What Pot Should You Use for Worm Plant?
Terracotta pot with drainage hole — excellent for wicking away excess moisture.
Care Schedule
Repot
Every 730 days
What Is Worm Plant and Where Does It Come From?
Crassula marnieriana, commonly known as the Worm Plant or Jade Necklace, is a compact succulent native to South Africa. It forms distinctive rope-like stems of tightly stacked, fleshy round leaves that overlap in opposite pairs, creating a unique appearance. In spring, it produces delicate clusters of white to pale pink star-shaped flowers.
How Big Does Worm Plant Grow?
TLDR: Worm Plant can reach up to 30cm tall with Slow growth rate.
Max height
30cm
Spread
20cm
Growth rate
Slow
Foliage
Evergreen
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Worm Plant?
TLDR: Worm Plant is susceptible to 7 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Overwatering
Overwatering occurs when plants receive too much water, depriving roots of oxygen and causing root rot. This environmental stress is one of the most common causes of houseplant death, as waterlogged soil prevents roots from breathing and functioning properly.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered with a white, waxy, cottony material. They are common pests of houseplants and outdoor plants in mild climates. These sap-sucking insects feed on plant tissue, causing damage, stunted growth, and can lead to plant death if left untreated. They produce sticky honeydew which attracts sooty mold.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids (less than 1/20 inch long) related to spiders and ticks that feed on plant sap. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can cause significant damage to ornamental and vegetable plants. During severe infestations, crop losses can reach 14% or higher as these pests disrupt vital plant processes including photosynthesis, carbon dioxide absorption, and transpiration.
Fun Facts
The "worm" nickname comes from its rope-like stems of tightly stacked round leaves that look like segmented worms.
Crassula marnieriana is named after the French botanist Julien Marnier-Lapostolle.
In good light conditions the leaf edges develop a reddish blush, adding color contrast to the plant.
This plant is frost-tender but thrives as a long-lived houseplant in temperate climates.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peace Lily | Easy | Low light | 4d | ⚠️ |
| Swiss Cheese Plant | Easy | Partial shade | 10d | ⚠️ |
| Golden Pothos | Easy | Low light | 8d | ⚠️ |
| ZZ Plant | Easy | Low light | 18d | ⚠️ |
