Calico Kitten
Crassula ovata 'Calico Kitten'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
4 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Toxic to pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Crassula pellucida 'Calico Kitten' is a trailing succulent with small, heart-shaped leaves variegated with shades of green, cream, and pink. The edges of the leaves often turn a vibrant magenta in bright sunlight. Its cascading habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets and as a 'spiller' in container arrangements. The intensity of its leaf color varies with light exposure.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck succulent cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
- Mist soil lightly until roots develop, about 2-3 weeks.
- Place in bright, direct sunlight for at least 4 hours daily.
- Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between watering.
- Fertilize monthly with cactus or succulent fertilizer during growing season.
- Transplant into larger pots as needed, typically every 2-3 years.
Pro Tip
Use a gritty, sandy soil mix to prevent root rot and ensure good drainage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Allow soil to dry out completely before watering 🌱
- Provide bright, direct sunlight for at least 4 hours daily
- Use well-draining soil to prevent overwatering
- Apply cactus fertilizer during the growing season
Don't
- Avoid overwatering; succulents are drought-tolerant ❌
- Don’t place in low-light conditions
- Refrain from using heavy, clay soils that retain moisture
- Don’t fertilize during dormant winter months
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Calico Kitten questions
What zones can Calico Kitten grow in?
Calico Kitten is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Calico Kitten deer resistant?
Yes — Calico Kitten is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Calico Kitten bloom?
Calico Kitten typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Calico Kitten need full sun?
Calico Kitten does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Calico Kitten drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Calico Kitten handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Crassula to compare
String of Buttons
Crassula perforata 'Small Red Carpet'
Variegated Red Pagoda
Crassula pagoda 'Variegata'
Campfire Crassula
Crassula erosula 'Campfire'
Hobbit Jade Plant
Crassula ovata 'Hobbit'
Propeller Plant
Crassula falcata
Red Pagoda Plant Crassula Red Pagoda
Crassula capitella 'Red Pagoda'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Calico Kitten with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
