The “Hippo Toes” plant, with its distinctive appearance, has become a popular choice for indoor gardeners. Its variegated foliage adds a unique touch to any plant collection. This guide covers cultivating a thriving Hippo Toes plant.
Understanding Your Hippo Toes Plant
This distinctive succulent is scientifically known as Crassula pellucida ‘Variegata’ and is also commonly referred to as “Calico Kitten”. Its common name, “Hippo Toes,” comes from the unique shape and texture of its leaves, which are thick, fleshy, and heart-shaped, resembling small toes. The leaves display a variegation of colors, typically grey-green with creamy-white or yellow streaks along the margins, often suffused with bright pink and red when exposed to more sunlight. This plant exhibits a trailing or decumbent growth habit, meaning its branches spread out or spill over the sides of its container, making it ideal for hanging baskets or tall planters.
Essential Care for Hippo Toes
Light
Adequate light is important for the plant’s vibrancy and health. It thrives in bright, indirect light, such as near an east-facing window. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense afternoon sun can scorch its delicate leaves, causing them to turn pale or develop brown spots. Insufficient light can lead to leggy stems and faded leaf colors. Aim for at least 5-6 hours of bright, filtered light daily to maintain its characteristic coloration and compact growth.
Watering
Proper watering is important, as succulents like Hippo Toes are susceptible to root rot from overwatering. The “soak and dry” method is recommended: water thoroughly until drainage occurs, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. During active growing seasons (spring and fall), watering every 7-14 days may be appropriate. In cooler winter months, reduce watering significantly, to once a month or less, especially indoors. Checking the soil moisture by feeling the top few inches helps determine when to water.
Soil Requirements
Hippo Toes require a well-draining soil mix. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal. You can enhance drainage by amending regular potting soil with materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand, aiming for a ratio of approximately 2 parts potting mix to 1 part amendment. This gritty mix mimics their native arid conditions, allowing quick drainage.
Temperature and Humidity
Hippo Toes prefer moderate temperatures, thriving between 65-75°F (18-24°C). They are not tolerant of frost and should be protected from temperatures below 40°F (4°C); prolonged cold can be harmful. As succulents, they naturally prefer low humidity levels, similar to their desert origins, making them well-suited for typical indoor conditions.
Fertilizing
Hippo Toes are not heavy feeders and do not require frequent fertilization. During their active growing season in spring and summer, feed them sparingly with a diluted, balanced liquid succulent fertilizer, once a month. A low-nitrogen formula, such as a 2-4-4 NPK ratio, is often suitable. Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient burn, so under-fertilize rather than over-fertilize. Avoid fertilizing entirely during the dormant winter months.
Propagating Hippo Toes
Propagating Hippo Toes is straightforward, primarily through stem or leaf cuttings. For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem and cut a section a few inches long with several leaves. Allow the severed end to callus or dry for a day or two to prevent rot. Once callused, insert the cutting into a well-draining succulent potting mix. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots develop, which typically takes a few weeks, and new growth appears.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Mushy or rotting leaves almost always indicate overwatering; stop watering immediately and allow the soil to dry completely. The plant may recover if the root rot is not too advanced. If leaves become pale or develop brown spots, it might be a sign of too much intense light, suggesting the plant needs to be moved to a shadier location or provided with some protection. Leggy growth (stretched stems with more space between leaves) often points to insufficient light, indicating the need for a brighter spot. While generally resilient, mealybugs can affect these plants; small infestations can be removed with a damp cloth or a diluted rubbing alcohol solution.