Scientific Name
Gasteria carinata 'Variegata'
Accepted Scientific Name
Gasteria carinata (Mill.) Duval
Synonym(s)
Gasteria carinata f. variegata
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Tribe: Aloeae
Genus: Gasteria
Description
Gasteria carinata 'Variegata' is an attractive succulent with dark green leaves irregularly striped with yellow or creamy white. It can reach a height of up to 7.2 inches (18 cm). The leaves are triangular, channeled on their upper surface, and have sharp points at the tips. They can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) long and 2 inches (5 cm) wide. The leaves are typically arranged spirally or sometimes in two opposite vertical rows.
Several variegated clones are available in cultivation, with leaves in different shapes, sizes, and degrees of variegation.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
These plants are often grouped with Haworthias because the plants have similar cultural requirements. Both are attractive, small succulents that can tolerate more shade than many, making them more suitable as houseplants.
Gasterias are susceptible to fungal infections, which usually appear as black spots on the leaves. These result from too much humidity or water on the leaves, but they should not spread too quickly. They have a natural defense mechanism against such fungal attacks: attack the invading organism and seal off the wounded spot. Generally, any place where Haworthia and Aloe thrive will be hospitable to a Gasteria.
These succulents are small, shallow-rooted, and relatively slow-growing. Therefore, they are often grown in small clusters in wide, shallow dishes. Over time, clusters will naturally enlarge as the mother plant sends off small plantlets.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Gasteria.
Origin
Gasteria carinata 'Variegata' is a form of Gasteria carinata selected for its variegated leaves.
Links
- Back to genus Gasteria
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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