Crassulaceae
Campfire Crassula: Ground Cover Plant
Crassula capitella
A very easy succulent that thrives on neglect. Water deeply but infrequently using the soak-and-dry method, allow full sun for the best red coloration, and plant in fast-draining soil. Protect from frost below -1°C. Fertilize lightly once a month in summer only.
Every 14 days
Bright indirect
-1.1° - 35°C
20% - 40%
Categories
What is Campfire Crassula?
Campfire Crassula (Crassula capitella) is a easy-care plant from the Crassulaceae family. Crassula capitella, commonly known as Campfire Crassula or Red Flames, is a low-growing succulent from the family Crassulaceae native to South Africa. It forms dense rosettes of propeller-shaped, fleshy leaves that are bright green at the base and turn vivid shades of orange, red, and scarlet when e...
Campfire Crassula grows up to 15cm, spread of 90cm, watering every 14 days, -1.1°C – 35°C, 20–40% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Campfire Crassula tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 28 days.
How to Care for Campfire Crassula?
TLDR: Campfire Crassula needs Bright indirect, watering every 14 days, and temperatures between -1.1-35°C with 20-40% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Campfire Crassula?
Water every 10–14 days in spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce to once or twice per month in autumn and winter. Always water at the base to keep leaves dry and prevent rot.
How Much Light Does Campfire Crassula Need?
Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The more sun it receives, the more intensely red and orange the foliage becomes. It tolerates light shade but will revert to green. Indoors, place on the brightest south- or west-facing windowsill.
What Is the Best Soil for Campfire Crassula?
Use a well-draining succulent or cactus mix. A good home mix is two parts coarse sand, two parts potting soil, and one part perlite or pumice. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain moisture. The ideal pH is 6.0–7.0.
What Pot Should You Use for Campfire Crassula?
Use a terracotta or unglazed clay pot with drainage holes. Terracotta wicks away excess moisture and helps prevent root rot. A shallow, wide pot suits its spreading habit. Ensure at least one drainage hole.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 90 days
Rotate
Every 30 days
Repot
Every 730 days
What Is Campfire Crassula and Where Does It Come From?
Crassula capitella, commonly known as Campfire Crassula or Red Flames, is a low-growing succulent from the family Crassulaceae native to South Africa. It forms dense rosettes of propeller-shaped, fleshy leaves that are bright green at the base and turn vivid shades of orange, red, and scarlet when exposed to full sun or cooler temperatures. The dramatic color transformation makes it one of the most visually striking succulents for containers and garden borders. In summer it produces small clusters of white star-shaped flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
How Big Does Campfire Crassula Grow?
TLDR: Campfire Crassula can reach up to 15cm tall with Slow growth rate.
Max height
15cm
Spread
90cm
Growth rate
Slow
Foliage
Evergreen
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Ground Cover
Soil coverage
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Campfire Crassula?
TLDR: Campfire Crassula is susceptible to 7 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered with a white, waxy, cottony material. They are common pests of houseplants and outdoor plants in mild climates. These sap-sucking insects feed on plant tissue, causing damage, stunted growth, and can lead to plant death if left untreated. They produce sticky honeydew which attracts sooty mold.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects (1/16 to 1/8 inch long) that feed by sucking nutrient-rich sap from plants. They reproduce rapidly and can quickly weaken plants, causing distorted growth and transmitting plant viruses. Aphids come in various colors including green, black, red, yellow, brown, and gray. They secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and encourages sooty mold growth.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids (less than 1/20 inch long) related to spiders and ticks that feed on plant sap. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can cause significant damage to ornamental and vegetable plants. During severe infestations, crop losses can reach 14% or higher as these pests disrupt vital plant processes including photosynthesis, carbon dioxide absorption, and transpiration.
Meaning & Symbolism
In the language of plants, Crassula capitella is associated with vitality, passion, and resilience — qualities symbolized by its fiery red and orange foliage. It is also linked to abundance and positive energy in feng shui traditions.
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