Variegated Succulents: Care and Propagation
Variegated Succulents: What Is It and How Does It Happen? Variegation, scientifically known as variegata, is the appearance of areas of different colors on the leaves and, sometimes, on the stem of plants. This phenomenon can have multiple causes and is highly valued in gardening and collecting due to its ornamental appeal.
Types of Variegation
There are two main types of variegation in succulents: natural and induced .
- Natural Variegation : This occurs spontaneously when a mutation occurs in the plant's tissues, affecting chlorophyll production and generating unique color patterns. If this mutation is stable, it can be propagated asexually through leaves or cuttings to obtain new plants with the same characteristics.
- Induced Variegation : Unlike natural variegation, this variegation is artificially generated through various scientific methods. However, these procedures do not always guarantee permanent results, and induced variegation can often be reversed. The most common methods include:
- Induced mutations : Exposure to radiation or mutagenic chemicals such as EMS (ethyl methanesulfonate) to alter DNA and generate variegations.
- In vitro culture : Application of growth hormones and controlled stress conditions in the laboratory to modify cell pigmentation.
- Induced chimeras : Grafts of variegated tissue onto a green rootstock, creating unique combinations.
- Controlled stress : Changes in temperature, exposure to UV light or nutritional deficiencies can cause temporary variations.
- Gene editing (CRISPR-Cas9) : Although still in the experimental stage, the possibility of modifying genes related to chlorophyll production is being investigated.
These methods are often used in research or specialized nurseries, but the stability of variegation can vary, and in many cases the plants can return to their original state.
Care
The maintenance of this type of plants is similar to that of other succulents, but with certain additional precautions:
- Substrate : It must be well draining, composed of a mixture of universal substrate, volcanic gravel and pumice to prevent moisture accumulation.
- Watering : Although their water requirements are similar to those of other succulents, variegated succulents may be more susceptible to foliar fungus. Watering by immersion (from the base) is recommended to avoid soaking the leaves.
- Light : They require controlled exposure. Too much intense light can damage the lighter areas, while too little light can cause loss of variegation.
- Temperature and ventilation : It is important to provide a well-ventilated environment to prevent fungi and regulate temperature to avoid excessive stress on the plant.
Propagating Variegated Succulents
The best way to ensure that a variegated succulent retains its characteristics is through asexual propagation. There are two main methods:
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Propagation by leaf : Carefully remove a healthy leaf from the mother plant. Let the leaf dry for a few days to avoid infection. Place it on a dry, well-aerated substrate, lightly burying the apex. Do not water for the first few weeks to force the leaf to generate a new rosette and roots. After approximately 6-8 weeks, when the new rosette begins to grow, controlled watering can be started. Not all leaves will produce variegated plants; some may be albino (without chlorophyll) and others may return to their original coloration.
- Propagation by cutting : Cut a stem from the variegated plant with a sharp, disinfected tool. Leave a few leaves at the base so the mother plant can continue growing. Apply sulfur powder to the cut to prevent infection and let it heal for at least a week before planting. Once healed, place the stem in dry substrate without initial watering until it develops roots. In 3-4 weeks, new shoots will begin to appear on the mother plant, these can be cut and propagated again.
This latter method offers better success rates, as it increases the probability of preserving variegation.
Conclusion
Variegated succulents are highly valued by collectors due to their rarity and beauty. However, they require specific care to maintain their variegation and prevent them from reverting to their original color. Whether you obtain a natural mutation or work with an induced variegated plant, knowing the factors that affect their stability and propagation will ensure their cultivation success. If you're looking for high-quality variegated succulents, at Don Suculentas you'll find unique specimens selected for advanced collectors. Discover our collection!