Propeller Plant

Propeller Plant (Crassula capitella) is the species behind the popular Campfire succulent, a low spreader with spirals of fleshy leaves that give it its propeller look. It grows about 20cm tall and 1m wide, and the leaves flush dark red in strong sun. It is a waterwise groundcover for sunny, frost free spots and a neat pot plant anywhere.

Why you'll love it

• Deep red in the sun. Leaves that stay green in shade turn a dark, rich red in full sun, so you decide the colour by where you plant it.
• The original form. This is the species that Campfire was selected from. It colours a darker red where Campfire runs to bright orange-red.
• Spreads wide, stays low. A 20cm height and a 1m spread cover bare ground quickly without growing tall.
• Hardy once established. Drought tolerant after the first few months, with no need for routine watering in a dry bed.
• Garden or pot. It suits rockeries, landscaping beds, xeriscapes and containers indoors or out.

Where it works best

Waterwise groundcover. Plant 50cm apart in full sun and free-draining soil. The stems root and knit together into a dark red mat that suppresses most weeds once closed.

Rockeries and gravel gardens. Low stems spill over rocks and soften hard edges, and the red leaves contrast well with grey stone.

Pots and bowls. A shallow pot of gritty mix on a sunny verandah or a bright indoor sill keeps it compact.

Growing Propeller Plant in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun for the best colour and a compact habit. It turns green and grows taller in low light. This species needs a frost free location, so in frosty southern and inland gardens grow it in a pot and bring it under cover for winter. It suits subtropical, warm temperate and Mediterranean gardens, with drainage the key in humid climates.

Soil. Free-draining soil. Sandy, gravelly or rocky ground is ideal. On clay, plant on a mound or use a succulent and cactus mix in a pot.

Water and feed. Water until established, usually around 12 weeks, then water only when the soil is dry. It needs a sunny position for at least part of the day.

Pruning. None needed. Pinch back any stems that outgrow their space.

What to expect when it arrives

Propeller Plant is sold as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. The tube comes from our grower and availability varies. When the grower has none it shows as sold out, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it is back. Plants can arrive green and redden up once they have some strong sunlight.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Succulents for hot climates
• Plants for rockeries
• Jade plants and crassulas
• Adjusting your watering schedule in winter

Common questions

What is the difference between this and Campfire?

Campfire is a selected form that turns brighter orange-red. Propeller Plant is the species, which colours a darker red. Size, habit and care are the same.

Can it handle frost?

No. It needs a frost free location, so in cold districts keep it in a pot and move it under cover for winter.

How do I stop it going green?

Give it more light. It reddens in full sun and turns green and grows taller when the light is low.