Crassula - Capitella Variegated aka Campfire
Crassula capitella 'Campfire Variegated' is a striking succulent cultivar renowned for its vibrant, fiery coloration and the added visual interest of variegation. This plant offers a dynamic display of reds, oranges, yellows, and creams, particularly intensifying under cooler temperatures and bright sunlight, making it a popular choice for adding a splash of color to succulent gardens and containers.
Key Features of Crassula capitella 'Campfire Variegated'
- Stacked, Fleshy Leaves: Features tightly packed, fleshy leaves that grow in opposite pairs along the stems, creating a stacked or layered appearance.
- Fiery Coloration: The primary appeal is its ability to develop intense red and orange hues, especially at the tips and edges of the leaves, resembling a 'campfire'.
- Variegation: Distinguished by the presence of creamy yellow or white variegation along the leaf margins or in streaks across the leaves, adding another layer of visual complexity.
- Trailing or Upright Growth: Can exhibit both upright and slightly trailing growth habits, making it versatile for different planting styles.
- Small, White Flowers: Mature plants may produce clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers, typically in the spring or summer.
Care for Your Crassula capitella 'Campfire Variegated'
- Light: Requires bright, direct sunlight to achieve its most vibrant coloration and maintain compact growth. Insufficient light will result in duller colors and leggy stems.
- 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 significantly during the dormant winter months.
- Temperature: Prefers mild temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
- Humidity: Adapts well to average humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
- Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the plant to maintain a clean appearance and prevent potential pest issues.
- Pruning: Pruning can be done to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, or remove any leggy stems. It is best done in the spring.
- Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot with good drainage. Spring or early summer is a good 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.
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
- Stem Cuttings: A reliable and easy 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 for variegated varieties, as the variegation may not be consistently passed on. Select healthy, plump leaves, allow the cut end to callus, and place them on top of well-draining soil.
- Offsets: Mature plants may produce small offsets that can be carefully separated and potted individually once they have developed some roots.
Crassula capitella 'Campfire Variegated' is a visually stunning and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent that brings a dynamic splash of color and variegation to any collection. Its fiery hues and unique stacked leaf structure make it a captivating 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.