The “Aurora Borealis Plant” is a captivating succulent known for its vibrant, multi-colored foliage. While this common name can sometimes refer to Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi ‘Aurora Borealis’, it is most frequently associated with Crassula pellucida ssp. marginalis ‘Variegata’, often called ‘Calico Kitten’. Its striking leaves display an array of hues, making it a popular choice for succulent collections.
Understanding the Aurora Borealis Plant
The plant commonly known as “Aurora Borealis” is botanically identified as Crassula pellucida ssp. marginalis ‘Variegata’, a member of the Crassulaceae family. It is a perennial succulent characterized by its heavily branched, prostrate, or trailing growth habit, with small, fleshy, heart-shaped leaves often fused in pairs along the stems. The variegation in its leaves, meaning the presence of non-green areas, results from a lack of chlorophyll. This allows other pigments, like carotenoids, to become visible, giving rise to creamy yellow, pink, pale green, and red-purple tones. These colors intensify with ample light exposure.
Optimal Care for Vibrant Colors
Achieving the characteristic vibrant colors of the Aurora Borealis Plant depends on providing precise environmental conditions. Each aspect of its care contributes to the health and coloration of its unique foliage.
Light Requirements
Strong light is essential for the Aurora Borealis Plant to develop its intense red and pink hues. Place the plant in a bright location where it receives full sun to partial shade. Protect it from the most intense, direct afternoon sun during hot periods to prevent leaf scorching. Insufficient light will cause the plant’s colors to fade, resulting in duller green foliage and leggy growth.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is crucial for this succulent’s health. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until drainage, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, causing mushy or wilted leaves. During winter dormancy, significantly reduce watering frequency.
Soil and Drainage
Well-draining soil is required to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is highly suitable. Alternatively, amend regular potting soil with pumice, perlite, or coarse sand to improve drainage. Use pots with drainage holes to ensure excess water escapes easily.
Temperature and Humidity
The Aurora Borealis Plant prefers mild temperatures and is sensitive to cold. It can withstand minimum temperatures around 7°C (44.6°F) but suffers below this. Bring the plant indoors or provide protection during frost. As a succulent, it prefers low to average humidity levels, similar to its native arid or semi-arid environments.
Fertilization
Succulents do not require heavy fertilization. Apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents during its active growing season in spring and summer. Fertilizing once a month during this period is sufficient. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
Propagation and Pruning
Propagating the Aurora Borealis Plant is straightforward. Methods involve using stem or leaf cuttings. For stem cuttings, allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for a few days before planting in well-draining soil. Leaf cuttings also benefit from callousing before being placed on or slightly in moist soil.
Pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape, encourages bushier growth, and removes leggy or overgrown stems. This is best done in early spring or late winter, before the active growing season. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Removing dead or damaged leaves improves air circulation.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Common issues often link to the Aurora Borealis Plant’s specific care requirements. Loss of vibrant coloration, coupled with stretched stems, indicates insufficient light exposure. Moving the plant to a brighter location can restore its hues and compact growth.
Overwatering leads to soft, mushy leaves and root rot; if this occurs, allow the soil to dry out completely and adjust future watering. Shriveled leaves signal underwatering, meaning the plant needs a thorough drink. Brown or scorched spots on leaves result from excessive direct sunlight; provide afternoon shade. Common pests like mealybugs and spider mites can affect this succulent. Inspect regularly and address infestations promptly with treatments like diluted isopropyl alcohol or insecticidal soap.