Crassula capitella var. thyrsiflora
Description: Crassula capitella var. thyrsiflora, also known as the Red Pagoda or Calico Kitten, is a striking succulent plant in the Crassulaceae family. It is characterized by its compact, trailing growth habit and colorful foliage. The leaves are triangular and succulent, arranged in stacked rosettes along the stems. The leaf coloration can vary, typically displaying shades of green, cream, pink, and red, with the tips often turning bright red or pink in response to sun exposure. During the blooming season, which usually occurs in late winter to spring, it produces small, star-shaped white or pale pink flowers on slender stalks, adding to its ornamental value.
Distribution: Crassula capitella var. thyrsiflora is native to southern Africa, particularly found in the Cape Provinces of South Africa, where it thrives in dry, rocky habitats.
Care Tips:
Light:
Requirement: Bright, indirect light.
Details: Crassula capitella var. thyrsiflora prefers bright light conditions. Place it near a window where it can receive plenty of indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct morning sunlight but should be protected from intense afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorching.
Watering:
Requirement: Moderate watering.
Details: Water Crassula capitella var. thyrsiflora regularly during the active growing season (spring and summer), allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in the winter months when growth slows down. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Soil:
Requirement: Well-draining soil.
Details: Plant Crassula capitella var. thyrsiflora in a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Ensure the soil provides good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions, which can be detrimental to the plant's health.
Temperature:
Requirement: Moderate temperatures.
Details: Crassula capitella var. thyrsiflora prefers temperatures between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) during the growing season. Protect it from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to cold and frost.
Humidity:
Requirement: Low humidity.
Details: Crassula capitella var. thyrsiflora thrives in dry, low-humidity conditions. It does not require additional humidity and prefers good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal issues.
Fertilizing:
Requirement: Minimal fertilization.
Details: Fertilize Crassula capitella var. thyrsiflora sparingly with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half-strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Repotting:
Requirement: Infrequent repotting.
Details: Repot Crassula capitella var. thyrsiflora every 2-3 years or when it has outgrown its container. Use a slightly larger pot with adequate drainage holes to accommodate its spreading growth habit.
Propagation:
Requirement: Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Details: Propagate Crassula capitella var. thyrsiflora from stem cuttings by snipping off healthy stems and allowing the cut ends to callous for a few days before planting them in a well-draining potting mix. Alternatively, propagate from individual leaves by gently twisting them from the stem and allowing the cut ends to callous before placing them on moist soil.
By following these care guidelines, you can successfully cultivate Crassula capitella var. thyrsiflora (Red Pagoda or Calico Kitten), appreciating its colorful foliage and delicate flowers in your succulent collection or indoor garden.