The Red Pagoda Plant (Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’) is a succulent known for its vibrant, fiery foliage. Its straightforward care makes it a popular choice for gardeners. This plant transforms from pale green to brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow under specific conditions, making it an appealing addition to rockeries, containers, and as groundcover.
Meet the Red Pagoda Plant
The Red Pagoda Plant (Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’), also known as ‘Campfire Crassula’ or ‘Red Flames’, is a succulent native to South Africa. It typically grows as a branching succulent, reaching 6 to 8 inches tall and spreading 2 to 3 feet wide, forming a colorful mat. Its propeller-shaped leaves are densely stacked along upright stems, resembling a pagoda or spiral. Initially pale green, these fleshy leaves develop vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues with sufficient sunlight, intensifying in color with cooler temperatures. White, star-shaped flowers may emerge in clusters during summer.
Red Pagoda Plant Care
Light Requirements
The Red Pagoda Plant thrives in abundant light, which is crucial for its vivid red coloration. Full sun exposure for at least six hours daily helps achieve the most intense hues. While it tolerates partial shade, especially in hotter climates, insufficient light causes leaves to remain green and may lead to leggy growth. Indoors, place it on a sunny windowsill or use a grow light for adequate brightness.
Watering Needs
Watering the Red Pagoda Plant carefully prevents root rot, a common issue. As a drought-tolerant succulent, it stores water in its leaves and prefers dry conditions. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until drainage, then allow the soil to dry completely before rewatering. Water more frequently in warmer months (every one to two weeks) and significantly reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Soil Preferences
Well-draining soil is crucial to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended. For enhanced drainage and aeration, add amendments like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand, ideally 50% to 70% mineral grit. It performs well in average, gritty, or lean soil and is not sensitive to soil pH.
Temperature and Humidity
The Red Pagoda Plant prefers warm environments and is sensitive to frost. Optimal growing temperatures range between 64°F and 77°F (18°C to 25°C), though it tolerates temperatures down to about 30°F (-1.1°C). Bring outdoor container plants indoors for protection if temperatures drop below freezing. It thrives in low to average household humidity, similar to its native dry conditions.
Fertilization
Red Pagoda Plants have low nutrient requirements and do not need frequent fertilization. If desired, apply a diluted balanced fertilizer for cacti and succulents sparingly. Fertilizing once during the active growing season (spring or summer) is sufficient. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so use a diluted solution to prevent nutrient burn.
Propagating Red Pagoda Plant
Propagating the Red Pagoda Plant is a straightforward process, primarily achieved through stem or leaf cuttings. The best time for propagation is during the plant’s active growing season, usually in spring and summer.
Stem Cuttings
To propagate using stem cuttings, select a healthy stem and make a clean cut with a sharp knife or scissors. Remove lower leaves to expose the stem, then allow the cutting to “callus” by drying it in a shaded area for a few days to a week. This callusing prevents rot. After callusing, insert the cut end into well-draining succulent or cactus soil. Lightly moisten the soil and place the pot in bright, indirect sunlight until roots develop (typically several weeks).
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings are another viable method. Gently twist a healthy, intact leaf from the stem, ensuring a clean break. Allow the leaf to callus for a few days before placing it on top of slightly moist, well-draining soil. Maintain bright, indirect light, and roots along with new plantlets should emerge from the base of the leaf.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Red Pagoda Plants can encounter a few common issues, often related to improper environmental conditions. Root rot is a prevalent problem, typically resulting from overwatering. Adjust watering to the “soak and dry” method and ensure well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes. If severe, remove affected parts and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Loss of vibrant red coloration, where leaves revert to green, is another common concern. This indicates insufficient light. To restore hues, gradually increase exposure to bright, direct sunlight. Indoors, move the plant to a sunnier window or supplement with a grow light.
The Red Pagoda Plant is susceptible to common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids. They appear as white, cotton-like masses or small insects on leaves and stems. Regular inspection helps early detection. Treatment involves wiping away pests with a rubbing alcohol-dipped cotton swab or applying insecticidal soap for succulents. Good air circulation also helps deter infestations.