Overview
Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora (Thunb.) Toelken x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. It is a hybrid of two subspecies of Crassula capitella and C. exilis subsp. cooperi. The plant is commonly known as Campfire, Red Pagoda, or Red Flames due to its bright red foliage that looks like a campfire.
Origin
The plant is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky areas or on cliffs. It can also survive in dry areas with little water. The plant has become popular worldwide due to its unique appearance, and it is now cultivated as an indoor or outdoor ornamental plant.
Uses
Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora (Thunb.) Toelken x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its bright colors and unique appearance. It is easy to grow and maintain, making it a popular choice for beginners. The plant is also used in succulent gardens or as a ground cover plant.
Appearance
The plant has a rosette-shaped growth habit, and its leaves are triangular in shape and arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. The leaves are fleshy and bright red, with the older leaves at the bottom of the rosette appearing a darker red-brown. The leaves can also take on a greener color in shaded conditions. The plant flowers in the summer with small pink or white flowers that are held above the rosette on a thin stem.
In conclusion, Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora (Thunb.) Toelken x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel is a South African succulent plant that is popular for its unique appearance and ease of growth. Its bright red foliage looks like a campfire, hence its common names Campfire, Red Pagoda, or Red Flames. The plant is commonly used as an ornamental plant, and it thrives in dry conditions.Light Conditions
Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel prefers bright but indirect sunlight for proper growth. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, leading to their death. Therefore, it's always better to keep the plant in partial shade during summer and in a well-lit room during winter.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel is between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). The plant is highly sensitive to frost and behaves like an indoor plant in cold regions. That said, it can do well in outdoor gardens during summers in warm regions.
Soil and Water Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil that's rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Overwatering the plant can lead to root rot and infections; therefore, it's better to keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During winter, the plant requires less frequent watering.
Cultivation
The Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora (Thunb.) Toelken x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel, also known as the red pagoda or campfire plant, is an easy-to-grow succulent plant that grows well in warm weather conditions. It requires well-draining soil and partial to full sun exposure. The plant can be propagated by stem or leaf cuttings, and it is recommended to plant them in the spring or early summer when the weather is warmer.
Watering Needs
The plant requires minimal watering, and it is recommended to wait until the soil is dry to the touch before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot and kill the plant. The root system of Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora (Thunb.) Toelken x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel is shallow, so it is essential to water using a container with drainage holes to avoid waterlogging the soil.
Fertilization
Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora (Thunb.) Toelken x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel requires minimal fertilization, and it is recommended to fertilize once a month during the growing season using a cactus or a succulent fertilizer. Over-fertilizing the plant can lead to excessive growth, which can make it lose its characteristic red tips.
Pruning
Pruning Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora (Thunb.) Toelken x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel is not mandatory, but it can be done to keep the plant in its desired shape. Pruning can also stimulate growth and increase the plant's overall health. It is recommended to prune during the growing season using a clean and sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. Cut off dry or dead leaves at the base of the stem and trim off any leggy stems to encourage a stronger, more compact growth.
Propagation Methods for Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel
Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel, commonly known as Red Pagoda or Campfire Plant, can be propagated through various methods:
1. Stem Cuttings
This is the easiest and most common method of propagating Red Pagoda. Select a healthy stem and cut it off at a 45-degree angle. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days, then dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Insert the cutting into a well-draining soil mix, water it lightly and place it in a bright location with indirect sunlight. It will take about 2-3 weeks for the cutting to root.
2. Leaf Cuttings
Red Pagoda can also be propagated through leaf cuttings. Choose a healthy leaf and remove it from the plant by gently twisting it. Allow the leaf to dry for a few days, then place it on a cactus/succulent soil mix and lightly mist it. Ensure that the soil mix is moist but not overly wet. It will take around 2 weeks for the leaf to grow new plantlets at the base.
3. Offsets
Red Pagoda produces small offsets or "pups" at the base of the plant. These can be gently removed and planted in their own pot, ensuring that each pup has some roots attached. Plant the offsets in a well-draining cactus/succulent soil mix and place them in a bright location with indirect sunlight. Water lightly and allow the soil mix to dry out completely before watering again.
With proper care, Red Pagoda will grow into a beautiful succulent plant that is perfect for indoor or outdoor decoration. Propagation ensures that you can have a constant supply of new plants or give them as gifts to friends and family.
Disease Management
Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora (Thunb.) Toelken x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel is typically a hardy plant that can resist many diseases. However, some diseases may still affect it:
1. Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects many plants, including Crassula. It manifests as small, circular, sunken spots on the leaves that may be yellow, brown, or black. The disease progresses when the spots coalesce, form large patches, and cause the leaves to drop. To manage leaf spot, remove the affected leaves and dispose of them in sealed plastic bags. Also, avoid overhead watering, and apply a copper-based fungicide to the remaining foliage to prevent further infections.
2. Root rot
Root rot is caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. The roots start to rot, turning brown or black, and mushy. As the roots decay, the plant can no longer take up water and nutrients, leading to wilting, yellowing, and eventual death. To prevent root rot, ensure good drainage by using a well-draining potting mix and avoid overwatering. Also, remove any dead or rotting roots and repot the plant, if necessary.
Pest Management
Crassula capitella Thunb. subsp. thyrsiflora (Thunb.) Toelken x C. exilis Harv. subsp. cooperi Regel is naturally resistant to pests, but some may still attack it:
1. Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. They also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew that attracts ants and promotes mold growth. To manage mealybugs, isolate the affected plant, and spray it with a solution of water and neem oil, insecticidal soap, or rubbing alcohol. Also, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove the eggs and larvae.
2. Scale insects
Scale insects are small, flattened, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems, sucking sap from the plant. They secrete a waxy covering that protects them from predators and pesticides. Heavy infestations can weaken the plant, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To manage scale insects, use a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove the scales. Alternatively, spray the plant with horticultural oil, insecticidal soap, or neem oil.
