Calico Hearts
adromischus maculatus
Also known as: ["Spotted Adromischus","Polka Dot Plant"]
Overview
A small succulent with fleshy, spotted leaves and a compact growth habit, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Adromischus |
| Botanical Name: | Adromischus maculatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright location or outdoor in sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light with some direct sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; move outdoors in spring/summer for brighter light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining succulent or cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use a mix with inorganic components.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frost but best kept above 50°F (10°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, propagation tray, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity; use well-draining soil.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves at the base; trim leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning to remove dead or damaged leaves and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead/damaged leaves; trim for shape; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot, ensuring good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil base until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without wetting foliage. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; use a cactus/succulent mix as a base.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing/browning) in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage if exposed to prolonged cold below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown spots if exposed to excessive heat or intense sun.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAdromischus maculatus is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAdromischus maculatus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAdromischus maculatus is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Adromischus maculatus?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent rot.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun, especially in cooler climates.
Q: Can Adromischus maculatus be propagated easily?
A: Yes, it can be propagated from leaf or stem cuttings, which root readily under the right conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light with so |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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