The “Foghorn Plant,” scientifically known as Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’, is a succulent cultivar prized for its vibrant red and orange foliage. It is a popular choice for both garden beds and indoor collections due to its striking appearance and relatively straightforward care.
Understanding Your Foghorn Plant
The Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ is commonly called “Foghorn Plant” due to its distinctive leaf arrangement, resembling a ship’s foghorn or layered flames. This succulent, a member of the Crassulaceae family, has a spreading, low-growing habit. Its fleshy, elongated oval leaves are arranged in an alternating pattern, creating a four-edged appearance.
The plant’s color transforms from light green to brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and deep red. This intense coloration occurs when exposed to ample sunlight and significant day-night temperature differences, mimicking the vibrant hues of a burning flame.
Essential Care for Vibrant Growth
Light Requirements
Proper light is essential for Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ to develop its signature red and orange coloration. The plant thrives in bright, direct sunlight, needing at least six hours daily for intense hues. Insufficient light causes leaves to remain green and leads to leggy, stretched growth.
While it tolerates full sun, protect it from intense midday heat in hot climates to prevent scorching. Indoors, a south- or west-facing window provides ideal bright light. Rotate the pot regularly for uniform growth and coloration.
Watering Practices
As a succulent, the Foghorn Plant prefers a “soak and dry” watering method. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot, then allow the soil to dry completely before rewatering. Overwatering causes root rot, so always check soil moisture first.
Adjust watering frequency seasonally; more frequent watering is needed during active growth in spring and autumn. Reduce or stop watering during summer dormancy or cold winter periods. Shriveled or limp leaves indicate underwatering.
Soil and Drainage
Well-draining soil is crucial for Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Use a specialized succulent or cactus potting mix, or amend regular potting soil with perlite, coarse sand, or pumice for aeration and quick drainage.
Pots with drainage holes are essential; terracotta pots are beneficial as their porous nature helps soil dry faster. The plant prefers loose, fertile, and well-draining sandy soil.
Temperature and Humidity
The Foghorn Plant thrives in temperatures between 20–30°C (68–86°F) during active growth. It tolerates heat but is not cold hardy and is susceptible to frost damage; growth halts below 5°C (41°F). Bring potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below freezing (-1.1°C or 30°F).
Humidity requirements are low, typical of succulents. Average household humidity is suitable for indoor cultivation; avoid excessive humidity to prevent fungal issues.
Fertilization Needs
The Foghorn Plant has minimal fertilization requirements. During active growth in spring and summer, apply a diluted balanced succulent fertilizer monthly. Minimize nitrogen-rich fertilizers, as they promote green growth and reduce vibrant red coloration.
Phosphorus- and potassium-rich fertilizers enhance leaf color. Reduce or stop fertilization during dormancy or extreme temperatures to prevent fertilizer burn. Annual repotting may provide sufficient nutrients, making additional fertilizer unnecessary.
Expanding Your Collection
Propagating the Foghorn Plant is a straightforward process, commonly done using stem or leaf cuttings. The plant also naturally produces offsets around its base, which can be carefully separated.
For stem cuttings, trim an elongated stem, remove lower leaves, and allow the cut end to callus for several days before planting to prevent rot. For leaf cuttings, select healthy leaves, callus them for a few days, then partially bury the cut end in slightly moist, well-draining potting soil. Roots typically form within a month, followed by a new rosette.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Loss of vibrant color, where leaves revert to green, indicates insufficient light exposure. To restore red and orange hues, gradually move the plant to a brighter location. Leggy or stretched growth (etiolation) also signals inadequate light and requires increased intensity.
Mushy leaves or rot, especially at the plant’s base, indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings and ensure proper drainage and aeration. Shriveled or wrinkled leaves point to underwatering, requiring a thorough soak. Pests like mealybugs and aphids can affect Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’. Treat them by gently wiping them off or applying a diluted rubbing alcohol solution directly to the pests.