Crassula Capitella, commonly known as Campfire Crassula, is a striking succulent that features vibrant red and green leaves, resembling the colors of a campfire.
This succulent’s unique trailing habit and bright hues make it a fantastic choice for both ground cover in outdoor gardens and a stunning display in indoor containers. With its ability to spread wide and its ease of care, Campfire Crassula is a favorite among succulent enthusiasts.
Basic Care Information
| Aspects | Crassula Capitella (Campfire Crassula) |
| Appearance : | Features bright red and green leaves, resembling a campfire in color. |
| Light requirements : | Full sun to partial shade. |
| Mature Size: | Grows up to 5 inches tall and 36 inches wide, making it a great ground cover. |
| Watering Schedule : | Water sparingly, allowing the soil to fully dry out before re-watering. |
| Fertilize Schedule : | Feed once or twice during the growing season with a fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents. |
| Dormancy Period : | Enters dormancy in high heat; reduce water during this period. |
| USDA Hardiness Zone : | USDA Hardiness Zone 10, minimum temperature 30°F (-1°C). |
| Propagation Techniques : | Propagate easily via offsets or stem cuttings. |
| Toxicity : | Mildly toxic to pets if ingested. |
Watering Needs
Campfire Crassula is highly drought-tolerant and requires only minimal watering. For a 4-5 inch pot, water around 1/8 to 1/4 cup every 2-3 weeks, ensuring the soil is completely dry between waterings.
During the plant’s dormancy in high heat, reduce watering significantly. It’s essential to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Always follow the proper watering technique to ensure your Crassula thrives.
Light Requirements
This succulent thrives in full sun, which enhances its signature fiery red color. While it can tolerate partial shade, the colors will be less intense in lower light. If grown indoors, place it in a sunny spot to bring out its vibrant hues. If your home doesn't receive enough sunlight, you can use a grow-light for indoor succulents to help maintain its bright, campfire-like appearance.
Fertilizing Schedule
Campfire Crassula benefits from light feeding during its active growing season, which spans from spring to fall. For a 4-5 inch pot, use 1/8 teaspoon of a balanced succulent fertilizer, diluted to half strength. Feed once or twice during the growing season to promote healthy growth. However, avoid fertilizing during its dormancy in high heat. For more detailed instructions on feeding succulents, refer to our fertilize guide for succulents.
Propagation Tips
Crassula Capitella is an easy plant to propagate, making it a great option for expanding your succulent collection. It can be propagated via offsets or stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callous for a day or two before planting them in well-draining soil. This succulent roots quickly, especially during the growing season. For more tips on propagation, visit our basic propagation guide for succulents.
Advanced Care
- Soil Requirements: Campfire Crassula grows best in well-draining, sandy soil. This prevents water retention, which can lead to root rot. A cactus or succulent potting mix works well.
- Container Choice: While this succulent can spread up to 36 inches wide, it also does well in small containers, where it can trail beautifully over the edges. Ensure the container has proper drainage to prevent water from pooling at the roots.
- Pest Management: Like most succulents, Campfire Crassula is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally attract mealybugs or aphids. Regularly inspect the plant, and if pests are found, treat them with neem oil or rubbing alcohol.
Unique Traits
Campfire Crassula is known for its distinctive color changes. In full sun, its green leaves turn a vibrant red, resembling a glowing campfire, which makes it a popular choice for adding a splash of color to any garden or indoor space. It’s perfect for use as ground cover in outdoor beds or as a decorative trailing plant in indoor arrangements. However, it is mildly toxic to pets if ingested, so be mindful of where you place it if you have animals in the house.
