The Crassula ‘Devil’s Horn’ is a captivating succulent that has gained favor among plant enthusiasts. Its striking appearance, characterized by unique and vibrantly colored foliage, makes it a popular choice for adding ornamental value to any collection. Scientifically identified as Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ or Crassula nudicaulis, this plant stands out with fiery hues and a distinctive growth habit, making it a desired specimen for both indoor and outdoor displays.
Characteristics of Crassula Devil’s Horn
The Crassula Devil’s Horn is aptly named for its distinctive leaf structure, which can resemble horns or propellers. These leaves are long, thin, and fleshy, arranged in a loose rosette or a stacked formation. While the foliage starts as a pale green, exposure to bright, direct sunlight causes the leaves to develop brilliant scarlet or crimson red tips and margins, creating a vibrant, fiery appearance. This coloration is particularly intense during cooler temperatures and bright sunlight.
This succulent exhibits a low-growing, spreading habit, often forming a colorful mat. It typically reaches a modest height of about 6 to 8 inches and can spread up to 2 to 3 feet wide, making it suitable as a groundcover or for containers. In spring or early summer, the plant may produce small, star-shaped flowers in clusters, usually white or white-green, adding a delicate contrast to its bold foliage. Other common names for this plant include Crassula ‘Campfire’ and Red Pagoda.
Crassula Devil’s Horn Care
Crassula Devil’s Horn requires specific care to maintain its vibrant coloration and health.
Light
The plant thrives in bright, direct sunlight for at least six hours daily to intensify its red hues. Insufficient light results in leaves remaining primarily green and losing their vibrant red tips. While it can tolerate partial shade, direct, intense midday sun can scorch leaves. For indoor plants, a bright window with filtered sunlight is ideal.
Water
Overwatering is a common issue, so the “soak and dry” method is recommended. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot, but ensure the plant does not sit in standing water to prevent root rot. During the spring growing season, water every 2-3 weeks; reduce watering to about once a month in fall and winter as needs decrease.
Soil
Crassula Devil’s Horn requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized cactus and succulent potting mix, often containing perlite or coarse sand, is suitable to enhance drainage. The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic, around 6.0.
Temperature
This plant prefers average summer temperatures from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). It is not cold-hardy and is sensitive to frost. In winter, it can survive temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C), but protect it from freezing, especially outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones below 9a (20°F or -6.7°C). Bringing the plant indoors or providing insulation helps it survive colder months.
Fertilizer
Crassula Devil’s Horn has minimal fertilizer requirements. A balanced, water-soluble NPK fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-5) can be applied once a year in spring at half the recommended strength. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to weak stems, and stop feeding entirely during the plant’s dormant season.
Propagating Crassula Devil’s Horn
Propagating Crassula Devil’s Horn is achieved through stem or leaf cuttings. For stem cuttings, carefully cut a healthy stem using a clean knife or scissors. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days until a callus forms over the cut end; this prevents rot. Plant the callused cutting in a well-draining succulent soil mix, keeping the soil lightly moist until roots develop.
For leaf propagation, gently remove a healthy leaf, ensuring no part is left on the stem. Allow the leaf to callus for a few days before placing it on top of a well-draining potting mix. New plantlets will eventually emerge from the leaf’s base.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Common issues with Crassula Devil’s Horn include loss of vibrant red color, indicating insufficient light. Increase exposure to bright, direct sunlight to restore hues. Intense, direct sunlight, especially in hot climates, can cause sunburn (yellow or brown spots); gradually acclimatize the plant to prevent this.
Overwatering frequently causes root rot, characterized by soft, mushy stems and yellowing leaves. Ensure the soil dries completely between waterings and use well-draining soil. Pests like mealybugs and scale insects may appear as small, white, cotton-like masses or bumps. Isolate affected plants and treat with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap. Sudden temperature fluctuations can cause leaf drop; maintain consistent conditions to prevent this.