Overview
Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. meyeri (Harv.) Toelken is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. This plant is popularly known as 'Campfire' due to its distinctive orange-red coloration and the way in which the leaves grow upright.
Origin and Distribution
Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. meyeri (Harv.) Toelken is indigenous to South Africa and is commonly found in rocky outcroppings and sandy soils of the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Lesotho. This plant has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including the United States, where it is often grown as an indoor plant.
Appearance
Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. meyeri (Harv.) Toelken is a small, rosette-forming succulent that grows up to 30cm tall. The leaves are fleshy, triangular to lance-shaped and up to 3cm long. The leaves grow upright and are often bright orange-red in color. The plant blooms in the summer with small white flowers that grow in clusters.
Uses
Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. meyeri (Harv.) Toelken is often grown as an ornamental plant because of its unique coloration and shape. It is easy to grow and is ideal for rock gardens, container gardens, and even as a houseplant. In traditional medicine, the plant is said to possess antifungal and antibacterial properties and is used to treat skin infections and wounds.
However, it should be noted that the consumption of this plant can be toxic to humans and animals, and in some cases may induce vomiting or nausea.
Light Requirements
Crassula capitella subsp. meyeri thrives in bright sun to partial sun conditions. Direct sunlight for a prolonged period may result in leaf scorching, whereas insufficient light may cause leggy growth. A location with bright but filtered light for a minimum of 6 hours per day is ideal for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can grow well in temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F) during the day and as low as 10°C (50°F) at night. Care should be taken to avoid temperatures below freezing, as it is not frost tolerant. When growing as a houseplant, it should be kept in a warm room away from drafts.
Soil Requirements
Crassula capitella subsp. meyeri prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. It can grow in a variety of soils, including sandy loam and rocky soils. Adding perlite or coarse sand to the soil can improve drainage. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy; waterlogged soil can cause root rot. Fertilizing once per month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer can be beneficial for growth.
Cultivation Methods:
C. capitella subsp. meyeri is a low-maintenance succulent that thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but should be protected from scorching afternoon sun. It is best to grow it in containers that can be moved indoors during colder months.
Watering Needs:
Like most succulents, C. capitella subsp. meyeri has minimal water requirements. Water it thoroughly but infrequently, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and kill the plant.
Fertilization:
C. capitella subsp. meyeri does not require frequent fertilization, but an occasional feeding with a diluted succulent fertilizer during the growing season can promote healthy growth. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant winter months.
Pruning:
Minimal pruning is required for C. capitella subsp. meyeri, but dead or wilted leaves and stems should be removed to prevent the spread of disease. Pinching back the tips of the stems can also encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Crassula Capitella Thunb. Subsp. Meyeri (Harv.) Toelken
Propagation of Crassula Capitella Thunb. Subsp. Meyeri (Harv.) Toelken can be done through several methods, including:
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most common and easiest way to propagate Crassula Capitella Thunb. Subsp. Meyeri (Harv.) Toelken. One can take a cutting from the stem and let the cut surface heal for a day before planting in well-draining soil. Rooting hormone can be applied before planting to enhance root growth and development.
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings can also be used to propagate Crassula Capitella Thunb. Subsp. Meyeri (Harv.) Toelken. One can remove a leaf from the plant and let it dry for a day or two before planting it in well-draining soil. Ensure that the cut end of the leaf is buried in the soil, and the upper part of the leaf is exposed to sunlight. In a few days, roots will start to emerge from the buried part of the leaf, and a new plant will develop.
Division
Division is another method of propagation that involves dividing the plant clump into smaller sections. Carefully remove the plant from the soil and separate it into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has both roots and stems. Replant the sections in well-draining soil, and water them thoroughly.
Offsets
Crassula Capitella Thunb. Subsp. Meyeri (Harv.) Toelken develops offsets, which can be used for propagation. These offsets can be easily removed from the parent plant and planted in well-draining soil, ensuring that they have enough water and sunlight to grow well.
Disease and Pest Management for Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. meyeri (Harv.) Toelken
Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. meyeri (Harv.) Toelken is a relatively low-maintenance plant and is not usually plagued by pests or diseases. However, it is important to keep an eye out for any signs of problems and take action promptly to prevent them from spreading.
Common Pests
The most common pests that may affect Crassula capitella include:
- Mealybugs: These tiny insects look like specks of cotton and can be found on the undersides of leaves or in the junctions where leaves meet the stem. They can suck the sap from the plant and cause yellowing or wilting. To manage them, isolate the affected plant, remove visible insects with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can infest the leaves, buds, and flowers of the plant and cause stunted growth or yellowing. They can be removed manually or sprayed with a strong jet of water, and insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used.
- Spider mites: These tiny arachnids are barely visible to the naked eye and can be found on the undersides of leaves. They can cause yellowing, stippling, and webbing on the plant. To reduce their numbers, boost the humidity around the plant, isolate it, and spray it with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that may affect Crassula capitella include:
- Root rot: This fungal disease is caused by over-watering or poor drainage and can cause the roots to decay. To manage it, reduce watering and improve drainage, and remove affected roots. Applying a fungicide can also be helpful.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots to appear on the leaves. It can be avoided by keeping the leaves dry and avoiding overhead watering. If it does occur, remove affected leaves and apply a fungicide.
- Stem rot: This fungal disease can cause the stem to turn brown or black and collapse. It can be caused by over-watering or poor ventilation. To manage it, remove affected parts of the plant, improve ventilation, and reduce watering.
Overall, maintaining proper care and hygiene practices, such as keeping the plant clean and well-hydrated, can help prevent the occurrence of both pests and diseases.
