If you’re a fan of succulent plants, you’ve likely come across the Crassula marginalis rubra variegata ‘Calico Kitten’. Native to South Africa, this unique plant is known for its small size and attractive variegated leaves. In this guide, we’ll dive deeper into the world of Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ and explore its physical characteristics, care and maintenance, propagation, and other interesting facts.
Physical Characteristics
One of the most striking features of Crassula marginalis rubra variegata ‘Calico Kitten’ is its fleshy, triangular-shaped leaves. These leaves are green with red and white variegation, adding a pop of color to the plant.
Flowers
In the winter or spring, Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ produces small, pink or white flowers. Despite its small size, typically only growing to be a few inches tall, this plant packs a punch in the visual department.
Care and Maintenance
When it comes to care and maintenance, Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ is a relatively low-maintenance plant.
Lighting
It does well in bright, indirect light and needs well-draining soil to thrive.
Watering
Watering should be infrequent, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. In the winter months, it is especially important to reduce watering to prevent the plant from becoming waterlogged.
Mealy Bug Infestation
Unfortunately, Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ is prone to pest infestations, particularly from mealybugs and aphids. These pests can cause damage to the plant and reduce its overall health. Regularly checking for signs of infestation and using appropriate pest control measures can help to keep your Crassula marginalis rubra variegata ‘Calico Kitten’ healthy and thriving.
Propagation
If you’re looking to expand your collection of Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’, propagation is a great option. This plant can be easily propagated from stem or leaf cuttings.
To propagate, simply take a cutting and allow it to callous over before planting it in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept in bright, indirect light until it has rooted and is established.
Other Interesting Facts
- Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ is a member of the Crassulaceae family, which includes a wide variety of succulent plants.
- In its natural habitat, Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ may be found growing in rocky areas or in forests. It is able to tolerate partial shade, but may need more frequent watering in these conditions.
- This plant is often grown as an ornamental in gardens or as a houseplant due to its attractive leaves and small, pink or white flowers.
- When growing Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ as a houseplant, it is important to choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged.
How can I tell if my Calico Kitten is getting enough light?
Some signs that your Crassula marginalis rubra variegata ‘Calico Kitten’ is getting enough light include:
Bright, vibrant leaf colors: The variegated pink, red and cream colors will be most colorful and intense with adequate light. In low light, the colors may fade or the leaves can turn greener.
New growth: If your ‘Calico Kitten’ is actively producing new leaves, especially from the tip of branches, that indicates it’s getting sufficient light for healthy growth. Without enough light, growth may be sparse or leggy.
Firm leaves: When properly lit, the leaves will be plump and firm. In low light, leaves may become floppy or shriveled.
If you notice your ‘Calico Kitten’ isn’t showing these signs, try moving it to a brighter spot or using a grow light to provide more illumination. Bright indirect sunlight from a sunny window is ideal. With some adjustments, you can keep this playful succulent growing and glowing!
Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ is a unique and low-maintenance succulent plant that is well-suited for growing indoors or in warm climates. With its attractive variegated leaves and small flowers, it is a popular choice for gardens and as a houseplant. By providing the plant with proper care and attention, including well-draining soil, infrequent watering, and regular pest control, you can keep it healthy and thriving.
Additionally, Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ is a great plant for those who are new to gardening or looking for an easy-to-care-for option. Its small size and low maintenance needs make it a perfect choice for busy individuals or those with limited space.
Overall, Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ is a fascinating and beautiful plant that is well worth adding to your collection. With its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements, it’s sure to be a standout in any garden or home
- Hardy to USDA Zone: 10a
- Size: Up to 6″ tall and 12″ wide
- Foliage: Green/cream variegated
- Flower: White
- Propagation: Stem cuttings, leaves, seed
- Light: Dappled sun, bright shade
- Water: Drench & Dry
- Soil: Gritty, mostly inorganic, quickly draining
- Origin: South Africa
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Crassula marginalis rubra variegata is more commonly known as Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ and is a great filler or spiller in succulent arrangements and ground cover in succulent gardens. It has the cutest heart shaped leaves striped in cream and green with pink edges as it gets stressed. Protect Crassula ‘Calico Kitten’ from frost if you keep it outdoors.
Quick question: Should you mist succulents? Find that answer here.
