As a Crassula plant, my light requirements are intrinsically linked to my origin. I hail from arid, sunny regions of South Africa, where intense sunlight is a constant. My succulent leaves are designed to store water and thrive under bright conditions. When placed indoors, my fundamental need is for you to replicate that bright, sun-drenched environment as closely as possible. Without it, my growth becomes weak, my iconic colors fade, and my structural form becomes etiolated and leggy as I desperately stretch toward any available light source.
For optimal health and vibrant appearance, I require a minimum of four to six hours of direct sunlight daily. A south-facing window is my ideal location, as it provides the most consistent and intense light throughout the day. An unobstructed west-facing window is a strong second choice, offering several hours of potent afternoon sun. Under these conditions, my photosynthesis operates at peak efficiency, converting light into the energy I need to grow compact and strong. You may even notice the edges of my leaves developing a beautiful red or orange stress coloration, which is a sign of perfect sun exposure and something we Crassulas are prized for.
I can persist in very bright indirect light, such as in an east-facing window that receives gentle morning sun or a few feet back from a south-facing window. However, this is a compromise. While I will likely survive, my growth will be slower and far less compact. My green varieties will remain mostly green, and my variegated types may lose their striking patterns, reverting to a plainer green to maximize chlorophyll production. I will not show my full potential or thrive as vigorously as I would in direct sun.
Please observe my posture and color, as I will clearly communicate my light dissatisfaction. If I am not receiving enough light, you will witness etiolation: my stems will become abnormally elongated, thin, and weak, with excessive space between the leaves. I will appear to be stretching or leaning drastically toward the nearest light source. My overall color will become pale and washed out. Conversely, if I am suddenly moved from low light to intense, scorching midday sun, I can receive sunburn. This manifests as brown, crispy patches or scabs on the surfaces of my leaves closest to the sun. This damage is permanent, so any changes to my light exposure should be made gradually.
The angle and intensity of the sun change with the seasons. During the short, dim days of winter, the light from my window may not be sufficient, especially if you live in a northern climate. You might notice some etiolation even in my usual spot. This is the time when I would greatly benefit from supplemental lighting. A simple grow light placed a few inches to a foot above me for 12-14 hours a day can perfectly compensate for the lack of natural winter sun, keeping me healthy and dormant until the stronger spring light returns.
