Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum f. variegatum is a captivating plant with a compact growth habit. Each specimen is unique and has different amounts of variegation, making it highly sought after by succulent collectors. This plant is often sold as Aeonium lindleyi f. variegatum.
Scientific Name
Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum f. variegatum
Accepted Scientific Name
Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum (Bolle) Bañares
Synonym(s)
Aichryson bethencourtianum f. variegatum
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Aeonieae
Genus: Aichryson
Etymology
The formal epithet "variegatum" (pronounced var-ee-GAY-tum) means "variegated or having a pattern of different colors or marks."
Origin
Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum f. variegatum is a form of Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum selected in cultivation for its variegated foliage.
Description
Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum f. variegatum, also known as Aichryson bethencourtianum f. variegatum, is an attractive, densely branched succulent shrublet with small rosettes of variegated leaves at the end of its woody branches. It can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall. The leaves are yellowish-green to dark green, with irregular cream to yellow markings, and often have a purplish-red tinge. They have velvety texture and are slightly sticky to the touch, measuring up to 0.7 inches (1.8 cm) in length, 0.4 inches (1 cm) in width, and 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) in thickness.
How to Grow and Care for Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum f. variegatum
Light: Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum f. variegatum thrives in full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers slightly shaded areas during summer, especially in the hotter afternoon hours. When growing indoors, ensure the plant receives plenty of bright, indirect light to prevent it from becoming leggy and stretched.
Soil: Unlike most succulents, this plant requires a sandy loam or regular potting soil amended with perlite. Avoid placing it in premade soil mixes designed for succulents since it needs more moisture than they typically provide.
Temperature: Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum f. variegatum does not tolerate hot or dry weather, so it may go dormant in summer. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9b to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 25°F to 50°F (- 3.9°C to 10°C).
Watering: Water the plant thoroughly in the spring and fall, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. During the winter, water it more sparingly. Although this plant requires more water than most succulents, too much moisture can lead to root rot. Stop watering except in arid conditions during its summer dormancy.
Fertilizing: Apply a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength during the growing season to stimulate growth and improve the plant's appearance.
Repotting: If growing Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum f. variegatum in a container, repot it as needed during the spring. Choose a container with drainage holes to prevent root rot from occurring.
Propagation: This plant is easy to propagate by stem cuttings. Take cuttings during the growing season and allow the cut ends to dry for several days before planting.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aichryson.
Toxicity of Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum f. variegatum
Aichryson tortuosum subsp. bethencourtianum f. variegatum is considered non-toxic, making it safe to grow around children and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Aichryson
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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