The “Cheeto Plant” is a popular nickname for a succulent known for its vibrant, fiery hues that resemble the cheesy snack. While not a formal botanical designation, understanding its true identity and specific care requirements is key to successfully cultivating its unique beauty.
Identifying the “Cheeto Plant”
The plant commonly known as the “Cheeto Plant” is botanically Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’. This succulent earned its nickname from its distinctive leaves, which transition from bright green to brilliant orange and red in ample sunlight. Its slender, propeller-shaped leaves also resemble the snack. Other common names include “Campfire Crassula” and “Red Flames Plant,” all referencing its striking coloration.
Characteristics of Campfire Crassula
Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ is a branching succulent forming dense, stacked rosettes. Its fleshy, elongated leaves are initially pale green, developing red and orange tones. This vibrant coloration intensifies with bright light and cooler temperatures, peaking in winter and full sun. This low-growing succulent reaches 5 to 7 inches tall and can spread 2 to 3 feet wide by sending out runners that root at their internodes, creating a colorful groundcover. While it produces small, white, star-shaped flowers in summer, its primary appeal is its foliage.
Caring for Your Campfire Crassula
Light
Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ thrives in bright light, needing at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for intense red coloration. Insufficient light leads to greener, leggy growth. While it enjoys sun, intense afternoon sun in warmer climates can scorch leaves, so some afternoon shade may be beneficial.
Water
This succulent prefers the “soak and dry” method. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot. During the spring and summer growing season, water liberally, but significantly reduce watering in colder months when the plant is semi-dormant. Ensure pots have drainage holes.
Soil
Well-draining soil is crucial. A cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal, often amended with inorganic materials like coarse sand, pumice, or perlite to enhance drainage. This prevents waterlogging and root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ prefers warm environments, ideally between 65°F and 85°F (18°C and 29°C). It is not cold hardy and needs protection below 30°F (-1.1°C), requiring indoor placement in colder zones. The plant prefers low to moderate humidity, typical of average household levels, and does not require misting.
Fertilizing
Fertilization for Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ is minimal. If desired, apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer or cactus blend once a month during its active spring and summer growing season. Over-fertilizing can harm the plant, so follow package directions.
Expanding Your Collection and Solving Problems
Propagation
Propagating Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ is straightforward using stem or leaf cuttings.
Stem Cuttings
Snip a healthy branch, allow the cut end to callus for several days to a week to prevent rot, then insert it into well-draining soil.
Leaf Cuttings
Gently twist a healthy leaf from the main plant, allow it to callus for 2-3 days, then lay it on moist, well-draining soil until roots and a new rosette form.
Common Problems
Common issues include etiolation, where stems stretch and leaves become sparse due to insufficient light. Root rot, caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leads to mushy stems and leaves. Conversely, underwatering can cause leaves to shrivel or drop. Mealybugs can occasionally affect Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’. Proper light, watering, and well-draining soil address most potential issues.