What are the Purple Calico Kitten?
The Purple Calico Kitten succulent, also known as the Crassula pellucida ‘Variegata’, is a popular plant among succulent enthusiasts. Its leaves are fleshy, round, and succulent, with a beautiful variegated pattern of white, cream, pink, and purple.
This plant is native to South Africa and is a member of the Crassulaceae family. Relatively easy plant to care for, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners. Prefers bright, indirect light, but can tolerate some direct sunlight. It is also drought-tolerant and can go for long periods without water.
The Purple Calico Kitten succulent is a great plant for indoor or outdoor gardening. It can be planted in pots, containers, or in the ground, and can be used in rock gardens, as groundcover, or as a filler plant in a succulent arrangement. It is also a popular plant for terrariums.
In terms of propagation, the Purple Calico Kitten succulent can be easily propagated from stem or leaf cuttings. It is a fast-growing plant, and with the right care, it can become a beautiful addition to any garden or home.
Dimension
Reaches a height of 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) and can spread up to 12 inches (30 cm) wide. However, the size of the plant can vary depending on growing conditions, such as the amount of light, water, and nutrients it receives.
Zones
This is a frost-tender plant and is hardy only in USDA zones 9 to 11, which includes regions with mild winter temperatures such as the southern United States and the Pacific coast. In colder climates, it can be grown indoors or in a greenhouse. It’s important to protect the plant from frost, as temperatures below 32°F (0°C) can damage or kill the plant.
How to Tend
Inside
Here are some tips on how to tend to a Purple Calico Kitten succulent inside:
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light, but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Place it near a window that gets at least 4-6 hours of bright, filtered light per day.
- Watering: Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering, then water deeply until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the plant to rot.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that contains a mix of perlite, sand, and peat moss. It’s important to use a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
- Temperature: The ideal temperature for the succulent is between 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C). Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 90°F (32°C).
- Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) and avoid fertilizing during the winter.
- Pruning: Prune the plant to maintain its shape and size. Pinch off any dead or yellow leaves to encourage new growth.
By following these tips, you can help your Purple Calico Kitten succulent thrive inside your home.
Outside
Here are some tips on how to tend to a Purple Calico Kitten succulent outside:
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light, but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Place it in a spot that gets at least 4-6 hours of bright, filtered light per day. If you live in a hot climate, it’s best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Watering: Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering, then water deeply until water drains from the bottom of the pot. In hot, dry climates, you may need to water more frequently. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the plant to rot.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that contains a mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss. You can also plant it in a rock garden, raised bed, or container. Be sure to use a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
- Temperature: Can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it’s best to keep it in a spot that’s protected from frost. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 32°F (0°C) and as high as 90°F (32°C).
- Fertilizer: Feed the Purple Calico Kitten succulent with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) and avoid fertilizing during the winter.
- Pruning: Prune the plant to maintain its shape and size. Pinch off any dead or yellow leaves to encourage new growth.
By following these tips, you can help your Purple Calico Kitten succulent thrive outside in your garden or on your patio.
Where to Purchase
You can buy this plant at our Esty shop. Happy Shopping!