PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright direct or filtered sun; prolonged full sun intensifies the red leaf margins, while shade may cause leggy growth and faded color
Watering
Allow the entire soil medium to dry completely between waterings; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in 18–25℃; protect from frost below 10℃, as cold temperatures can damage fleshy leaves
Characteristics
- Leaf: Thick, fleshy ovate leaves with bright green centers and fiery red margins; arranged in opposite pairs
- Flower: Clusters of small, tubular orange-red blooms on upright, branching stems
- Stem: Short, woody basal stems that produce new rosette offsets with maturity
Care Guide
Watering
Water when the top 5 cm of soil is fully dry
Fertilization
Diluted cactus fertilizer applied once monthly. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter to allow the plant to enter dormancy
Eggshell powder top dressing：Grind dried, rinsed eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer on the soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve soil aerationPruning
- Remove spent flower stems at the base to redirect energy to foliage growth
- Trim leggy stems in early spring to maintain a compact rosette shape
- Pluck dead or yellowing leaves at the base to prevent pest infestations and improve airflow
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-confirmed toxic; contains bufadienolide cardiac glycosides that can cause severe gastrointestinal and cardiac issues
Humans: Contains low levels of calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion may cause mild oral irritation or nausea in large quantities
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental succulent for indoor tabletops, succulent arrangements, and outdoor rock gardens
