Crassula capitella 'Campfire' is a visually striking succulent cultivar renowned for its vibrant coloration that intensifies under stress, resembling the glowing embers of a campfire. Its unique stacked leaf arrangement and ability to transform into brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow make it a popular choice for succulent enthusiasts seeking a dynamic and colorful addition to their collections.
 
Key Features of Crassula capitella 'Campfire'
Stacked, Fleshy Leaves: Features small, fleshy, and somewhat flattened leaves that are tightly stacked along the stems, creating a distinct architectural form.
Intense Coloration: The most notable feature is its ability to develop brilliant red, orange, and yellow hues, particularly when exposed to bright sunlight and cooler temperatures. The intensity of the color can vary depending on environmental conditions.
Trailing or Upright Growth: Can exhibit a somewhat trailing or more upright, branching growth habit, making it versatile for different planting styles.
Small, White Flowers: Mature plants may produce clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers, typically appearing in the spring or summer.
Relatively Fast Growing: Under favorable conditions, it can grow relatively quickly compared to some other slow-growing succulents.
 
Care for Your Crassula capitella 'Campfire'
Light: Requires bright, direct sunlight to achieve its most vibrant coloration and maintain a compact form. Insufficient light will result in a greener coloration and leggy growth.
Soil: Needs a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus and succulent mix is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering is a significant risk. Reduce watering considerably during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers mild temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions. The intense coloration is often enhanced by cooler temperatures within its tolerance range.
Humidity: Adapts well to average humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Vibrant Plant
Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the stems to maintain a clean appearance and prevent potential pest issues.
Pruning: Pruning can be done to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, or propagate new plants. It is best done during the active growing season.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot with good drainage that is only slightly larger. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests such as mealybugs and aphids. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to leggy growth and less intense coloration.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Stem Cuttings: A very easy and reliable method. Take healthy stem cuttings a few inches long, allow the cut ends to callus over for a few days, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
Leaf Cuttings: While possible, leaf propagation can be slower and less reliable. Select healthy, plump leaves, allow the cut end to callus, and place them on top of well-draining soil. New plantlets may eventually emerge.
Offsets: Mature plants may produce small offsets at the base, which can be carefully separated and repotted.
 
Crassula capitella 'Campfire' is a dynamic and visually captivating succulent that brings a fiery touch to any collection. Its easy care requirements and dramatic color changes in response to environmental conditions make it a rewarding and eye-catching plant for both novice and experienced succulent enthusiasts.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.