Adromischus maculatus, Calico Hearts, or Chocolate Drop is agrey-green throw in of succulent.
Its appearance is that it has a flat, oval leaves with purple-colored spots all over them.
Beginners can learn how to plant and care of succulents using this specific plant.
It propagates well in bright light or even indoors.
It rarely blossoms indoors but outdoors it tends to produce tube-shaped, white blooms.
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If its given enough light, it can be grown indoors.
This succulent can grow up to 20 centimeters or 8 inches wide and about just as tall.
Its best planted during spring to fall.
Plant in a garden that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight every day.
You should also protect the plant from frost by planting it indoors or anywhere sunny.
#2.
Where to plant
Plant it indoors or outdoors.
#3.
Just dig just enough for the leaves to take root and plant.
Care for Calico Hearts
#1.
Soil
It can grow in any gritty compost thats free-draining.
Put the plant indoors or in a shed if its rainy in your area.
#2.
Light & Temperature
Calico Hearts are all about sunlight or artificial indoor lighting.
Its partial to full sunlight.
Its also a good outdoor plant for summary to tropical climates.
This is known as the soak and dry method.
Its sensitive to overwatering, just like aloe vera or other succulents.
The more you soak it the likelier its root will rot.
It also doesnt need high humidity and will survive under most household options.
#4.
Fertilizer
Use the organic liquid variety of fertilizer on the Calico Hearts during the growth season.
In other words, it should be given fertilizer during the beginning of spring until the summer season.
#5.
Propagation
you’re free to propagate the Calico Hearts by using its leaves.
Water immediately but dont over-water.
Its Spring and Fall plant capable of growing up to 8 inches or 20 centimeters in height and width.
#6.
Pruning
Cut the stem of the Calico Hearts within half an inch of the desired node or leaf.
Problems
#1.
Growing Problems & Diseases
Calico Hearts can suffer from root rot.
This succulent is also quite fragile, so be careful when you touch it.
Once odd bump or stray twist can snap the leaves in twain, much like an oregano plant.
You should find the right spot for it to propagate then leave it alone.
#2.
Pests
The most well-known pests for Calico Hearts are vine weevils and mealybugs.
you’re able to save the plant from its natural predators of pests by with a systemic insecticide.
Just watch out from using any chemicals that could kill helpful insects like bees.
FAQs
#1.
Where did Calico Hearts come from?
Calico Hearts originated from South Africa, specifically in a place called Mpumalanga.
Its clear why its the kind of plant that is sensitive to overwatering.
In its native South Africa, water is scarce and it can survive with little watering.
#2.
How does the Calico Hearts plant fare during the different seasons?
As expected of a South African plant, Calico Hearts isnt hardy to cold.
It instead actively grows throughout spring and fall while it should be put indoors during winter.
You should keep water off of the leaves in the wintertime as well.
It thrives well during summer.
#3.
Does the Calico Hearts plant have any known herbal medicinal value?
It can be toxic to humans and animals (pets) so like avoid eating it.
Avoid trying to extract its oils for consumption.
#4.
How can you take care of Calico Hearts in the winter?
If theres snow and frost, put it indoors where theres heat.
It can survive during the winter as long as its cool and frost-free.
Keep water off of its foliage during the season as well to prevent it from getting frosty and frostbitten.
