Crassula Marginalis rubra Variegata, also known as Calico Kitten, is a beautiful trailing succulent with heart-shaped leaves that display a stunning mix of pink, cream, and green hues.
This colorful plant is ideal for hanging baskets or trailing over the edges of containers, adding a vibrant splash of color to any indoor or outdoor space. With its easy care and unique appearance, Calico Kitten is a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts.
Basic Care Information
| Aspects | Crassula Marginalis rubra variegata (Calico Kitten) |
| Appearance : | Heart-shaped leaves with variegated pink, cream, and green hues. |
| Light requirements : | Prefers partial shade to full sun for brighter coloration. |
| Mature Size: | Grows up to 6 inches tall, perfect for trailing over the edge of containers. |
| Watering Schedule : | Water when soil is dry, about every 1-2 weeks depending on conditions. |
| Fertilize Schedule : | Feed once a month during the growing season with a balanced succulent fertilizer. |
| Dormancy Period : | Dormant in high heat; reduce watering during dormancy. |
| USDA Hardiness Zone : | USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11, tolerates temperatures down to 20°F (-6.7°C). |
| Propagation Techniques : | Propagates easily from stem cuttings. |
| Toxicity : | Mildly toxic to pets if ingested. |
Watering Needs
Calico Kitten is drought-tolerant, so it’s important not to overwater this succulent. For a 4-5 inch pot, water around 1/8 to 1/4 cup every 1-2 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
During its dormancy in high heat, reduce watering even further to prevent root rot. Be sure to follow a proper watering technique to avoid overwatering and keep your Calico Kitten thriving.
Light Requirements
This succulent thrives in partial shade to full sun. To enhance the vibrant pink, cream, and green colors, full sun exposure is best. However, too much direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day can cause leaf burn, so be sure to provide some afternoon shade if grown outdoors. Indoors, a sunny windowsill is ideal, but if natural light is limited, consider using a grow-light for indoor succulents to keep the plant healthy and colorful.
Fertilizing Schedule
Crassula Marginalis rubra 'Variegata' benefits from light feeding during its active growing season (spring to fall). For a 4-5 inch pot, use 1/8 teaspoon of a balanced succulent fertilizer, diluted to half strength, and feed once a month.
Avoid fertilizing during its dormancy in the summer heat. For more tips on fertilizing succulents, refer to our fertilize guide for succulents to ensure your plant is well-nourished.
Propagation Tips
Calico Kitten is easy to propagate, making it a great option for growing more plants. Propagate it via stem cuttings—simply allow the cuttings to callous over for a day or two before placing them in well-draining soil.
New growth should appear within a few weeks. If you're new to propagation, our basic propagation guide for succulents provides a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Advanced Care
- Soil Requirements: Calico Kitten thrives in well-draining soil, such as a succulent or cactus mix. This helps prevent water retention, which can lead to root rot.
- Container Choice: Since it is a trailing succulent, Calico Kitten looks stunning in hanging baskets or over the edge of shallow containers. Ensure the container has good drainage to prevent excess water from pooling at the roots.
- Pest Control: While this succulent is relatively pest-resistant, it can occasionally attract mealybugs. Regularly inspect your plant, and if pests are detected, treat with neem oil or rubbing alcohol.
Unique Traits
Calico Kitten’s vibrant, heart-shaped leaves make it a standout in any succulent collection. The striking variegation in its foliage changes color depending on the amount of sunlight it receives, becoming more vivid with brighter light.
Its trailing habit also makes it perfect for hanging baskets, adding a colorful cascading effect to any space. However, it is mildly toxic to pets if ingested, so be sure to keep it out of reach of animals.
