Campfire plant care guide
Crassula capitella
Also known as: Campfire crassula
Pets and children
Considered toxic
A Crassula like the jade plant: dogs and cats that eat the leaves or stems are reported to develop vomiting, lethargy, and unsteadiness, so keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian, or a doctor for a child, if eaten.
How often to water Campfire plant
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 14 days
- In spring, water well about two or three days after the soil dries; from the rainy season to midsummer give a lighter evening watering about twice a month.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- Fall is a growing season: water thoroughly once the soil dries, about weekly, and with full sun the leaves begin turning red.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every month
- In winter, water lightly about once a month on a mild morning; a drier plant colors redder.
Light and placement for Campfire plant
A spring-fall grower that generally wants full sun under the eaves all year: the fiery red comes from strong light, cool fall nights, and sparing water, while poor light turns it green and leggy, so shade only lightly in midsummer.
Overwintering Campfire plant
Overwintering guide: 0°C (32°F) or above
It generally takes about 0°C if kept off frost, and winter sun deepens the red; on freezing nights move it deeper under the eaves or to a bright window, with water about once a month.
Fertilizing and repotting Campfire plant
Fertilizer
It needs almost no feeding: diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month in spring and fall, since too much keeps the leaves green rather than red.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Campfire plant
- Indoors in dim light it turns green and stretches.
- Overwatered in summer, it steams and rots at the base.
- Too much food and water loosens the leaves and stops the red.
Tips for growing Campfire plant
- For fall color, give full sun and hold back water and feed from autumn.
- It clumps and spreads; divide or take cuttings when it outgrows the pot.
- Cutting back leggy stems prompts side shoots and a fuller mound.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
