The Red Coral Succulent (Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’) is a captivating plant cherished for its vibrant, fiery appearance. This guide provides information on cultivating and caring for this distinctive succulent, ensuring its healthy growth and brilliant coloration.
Understanding Red Coral Succulent
Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ is a striking succulent with stacked, propeller-shaped leaves. These leaves typically start pale green, transforming into brilliant red, orange, or yellow when exposed to ample sunlight or cooler temperatures, especially in winter. Its common name “Red Coral” aptly describes its vivid color and branching habit.
This low-growing, spreading plant reaches 5 to 7 inches tall and spreads 2 to 3 feet wide, forming a colorful mat. Its ability to store water in fleshy leaves, stems, and roots makes it well-suited for arid conditions. It serves as groundcover or a popular choice for containers and rock gardens.
Red Coral Succulent Care Guide
Light
For vibrant red coloration, Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ requires bright, direct sunlight, ideally at least four to six hours daily. Full sun develops the deepest red hues. Insufficient light causes the plant to remain green and may lead to etiolation, where stems become leggy. While it tolerates some partial shade, especially in hotter climates, bright light is paramount for color. Indoors, a south or west-facing window is beneficial.
Water
Proper watering is crucial for Red Coral Succulents, as overwatering commonly causes root rot. The “soak and dry” method is ideal: allow soil to dry completely between thorough waterings until water drains from the pot bottom. It is better to underwater. During active growing seasons (spring and summer), increase watering frequency, but always ensure dry soil first. In winter, when growth slows, significantly reduce watering. Apply water directly to the soil, avoiding foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Soil
Well-draining soil is essential for Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus mix is highly recommended for aeration and drainage. For a DIY mix, incorporate perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to improve drainage and prevent compaction.
The roots are sensitive to oxygen deficiency, so soil must drain quickly. Avoid mixes with high peat or moisture-retentive components. Terracotta pots further aid uniform soil drying.
Temperature and Humidity
Red Coral Succulents prefer a warm environment, ideally 65° to 85°F (18° to 29°C). They are not cold hardy and sensitive to frost, with damage below 30°F (-1.1°C). In colder winters, bring plants indoors or provide protection.
The plant thrives in dry air and tolerates low to moderate humidity (around 50-55%). While it handles some outdoor summer humidity, excessive moisture, especially with overwatering, can cause leaf rot. Average household humidity is suitable for indoor cultivation.
Fertilizer
Red Coral Succulents are not heavy feeders and thrive in relatively poor soils. Fertilization is generally not necessary, especially if repotted annually with fresh soil.
If fertilizing, do so sparingly only during the active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced liquid succulent fertilizer, diluted to half or quarter strength. Over-fertilization can lead to weak, leggy growth or root burn. Avoid fertilizing during dormant fall and winter months.
Propagating Red Coral Succulent
Propagating Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ is straightforward using stem or leaf cuttings, with stem cuttings often being the most efficient. To propagate, select a healthy stem and take a 4-6 inch cutting with a sterile, sharp knife or scissors. Allow the fresh end to “callus over” for several days to two weeks in a warm, dry spot; this prevents rot. Once callused, plant the cutting in well-draining succulent soil.
For leaf cuttings, gently remove a healthy leaf, ensuring the entire base is intact, allow it to callus, then lay it on moist, well-draining rooting mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until roots and new growth appear.
Common Issues with Red Coral Succulent
Overwatering is a frequent problem for Red Coral Succulents, often leading to root rot. Symptoms include mushy leaves, black stems, or plant collapse. Prevent this by adhering to the “soak and dry” watering method and using well-draining soil.
Etiolation, or legginess, is another common concern, where the plant stretches and becomes pale due to insufficient light. This indicates insufficient direct sunlight; move the plant to a brighter location.
While generally disease-free, Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ can occasionally attract pests like mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites. Regular inspection and treatment with horticultural oils or insecticidal soap can manage these issues.
Toxicity of Red Coral Succulent
Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ is mildly toxic to humans and pets (cats, dogs, horses). Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Due to its toxicity, place this plant out of reach of children and pets. When handling, especially for extended periods, wear garden gloves, as prolonged skin contact can cause mild irritation. In case of ingestion, consult a veterinarian or poison control.