Variegated Succulents: A Guide to Growing and Caring for These Vibrant Plants | SucculentBuds (2024)

Are you tired of the same old green succulents? Bored of the plain and monotonous? Well, have we got a treat for you! Variegated succulents offer a burst of color and texture that will make your garden stand out from the rest. But what exactly is variegation and what causes it? In this article, we'll dive into the world of variegated succulents, exploring their growth habits, recommended light conditions, and how to care for them. Plus, we'll introduce you to some of our favorite variegated and multicolored succulents that are sure to dazzle. So come along for the ride and let's add some pizazz to your succulent collection!

Variegation is a phenomenon in which a plant displays multiple colors on its leaves or stem.

This can occur naturally or through human intervention, and it can take on a variety of patterns and colors.

There are two main types of variegation: true variegation and albinism.

True variegation is caused by cell mutation, which masks green chlorophyll pigments with pigments like anthocyanins, carotenoids, and betalains.

Albinism is considered a type of variegation when plant tissue lacks green chlorophyll, leaving portions of the foliage white to yellow in color.

Variegation is often inherited genetically, which means that certain plants are more likely to display variegation than others.

This is because the genes responsible for variegation are passed down from parent plants to their offspring.

However, variegation can also arise at random in chimeras, which are plants that have two or more genetically distinct types of tissue.

Several factors can affect the degree and quality of variegation in succulents.

These include light conditions, cold hardiness, maximum height, maximum rosette size, growth habit/shape, and seasonality.

For example, some variegated succulents require bright, indirect light to maintain their variegation, while others can tolerate more shade.

Similarly, some variegated succulents are more cold-hardy than others and can survive in temperatures as low as 20�F, while others are more sensitive to cold and require protection during the winter months.

Variegated succulents can lose their variegation as they grow, and it is important to prune back solid green growth to prevent this.

This is because solid green growth is more vigorous and can outcompete variegated growth, leading to a loss of variegation over time.

By pruning back solid green growth, you can encourage the growth of variegated tissue and maintain the unique colors and patterns of your variegated succulents.

Variegation is a fascinating phenomenon that adds a unique touch to succulent plants.

But what causes this colorful pattern on the leaves and stem of succulents? Let's dive in and explore the different factors that contribute to succulent variegation.

True variegation is caused by a cell mutation that masks green chlorophyll pigments with pigments like anthocyanins, carotenoids, and betalains.

This mutation can occur randomly or be inherited genetically.

Albinism is also considered a type of variegation when plant tissue lacks green chlorophyll, leaving portions of the foliage white to yellow in color.

Interestingly, the degree of variegation can vary depending on the location of the mutated cells.

For example, if the mutation occurs in the outer layer of cells, the variegation will be more prominent on the surface of the leaves.

If the mutation occurs in the inner layer of cells, the variegation will be more subtle and visible only when the leaf is held up to the light.

Another cause of succulent variegation is chimeras.

A chimera is a plant that has two or more genetically distinct types of tissue.

This can happen when two different plants are grafted together or when a mutation occurs during cell division.

The result is a plant with a unique combination of colors and patterns on its leaves and stem.

Chimeras can be unstable and may revert back to their original form over time.

This is why it's important to propagate variegated succulents by taking cuttings from the variegated portion of the plant and not from the solid green growth.

Environmental factors can also play a role in succulent variegation.

For example, succulents that are exposed to more sunlight may develop more prominent variegation.

On the other hand, succulents that are grown in low light conditions may have less variegation or lose their variegation altogether.

Temperature can also affect succulent variegation.

Some succulents may develop more variegation in cooler temperatures, while others may lose their variegation in extreme heat.

Finally, soil and water quality can impact succulent variegation.

Succulents that are grown in nutrient-poor soil or overwatered may have less prominent variegation or develop yellowing leaves.

Understanding the different factors that contribute to succulent variegation can help you grow and care for these unique plants.

Whether you're a seasoned succulent collector or just starting out, variegated succulents are sure to add a pop of color and interest to your indoor or outdoor garden.

Variegated succulents are a beautiful addition to any plant collection, but they require specific care to maintain their unique colors and patterns.

Here are some tips for growing healthy and vibrant variegated succulents:

Variegated succulents require bright, indirect light to maintain their colors and patterns.

Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn, while too little light can cause the plant to revert to solid green.

Place your variegated succulent near a window that receives bright, indirect light for at least six hours a day.

If you live in an area with harsh sunlight, consider using a sheer curtain or shade cloth to filter the light.

You can also move your succulent outside during the cooler months when the sun is less intense.

Most variegated succulents are cold hardy and can survive temperatures as low as 20�F (-6�C).

However, it's important to protect them from frost and freezing temperatures, which can damage the leaves and cause them to rot.

If you live in an area with cold winters, consider bringing your variegated succulent indoors or covering it with a frost cloth during the coldest months.

You can also plant your succulent in a container that can be moved indoors during the winter.

The maximum height and rosette size of variegated succulents vary depending on the species and cultivar.

Some variegated succulents, like Echeveria 'Ana Lu', grow in tight rosettes that reach a maximum height of 6 inches (15 cm).

Others, like Aeonium 'Sunburst', can grow up to 3 feet (1 m) tall and have large, branching rosettes.

When choosing a variegated succulent for your collection, consider the size of the plant and whether it will fit in your desired planter or garden space.

You can also prune your succulent to control its size and shape.

The growth habit and shape of variegated succulents vary widely, from tight rosettes to sprawling vines.

Some variegated succulents, like Crassula ovata 'Tricolor', have a branching habit and can be trained to grow as a small tree.

Others, like Senecio rowleyanus f.

variegatus, have a trailing habit and are perfect for hanging baskets.

When choosing a variegated succulent, consider its growth habit and shape and whether it will fit in your desired planter or garden space.

You can also use different variegated succulents together to create a unique and eye-catching display.

Variegated succulents are generally summer growers and go dormant in the winter.

During the summer months, they require more frequent watering and fertilization to support their growth.

In the winter, they require less water and no fertilizer.

When caring for your variegated succulent, be sure to adjust your watering and fertilization schedule based on the season.

You can also use a well-draining soil mix and a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from sitting in the soil and causing root rot.

Reversion is a phenomenon that occurs when a variegated succulent reverts back to its original solid green color.

This can happen due to a variety of factors, including stress, lack of light, or genetic instability.

It is important to keep an eye out for reversion and take action to prevent it from happening.

Reversion can be difficult to spot, especially if you are not familiar with the original appearance of the plant.

However, there are a few signs to look out for.

One of the most obvious is the appearance of solid green growth on a plant that was previously variegated.

This can happen anywhere on the plant, including the leaves, stem, or rosette.

Another sign of reversion is a change in the overall appearance of the plant.

If it looks less colorful or less interesting than it used to, it may have reverted.

The best way to prevent reversion is to provide your variegated succulents with the right growing conditions.

This includes plenty of bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and careful watering.

You should also avoid exposing your plants to extreme temperatures or other sources of stress.

If you notice any signs of reversion, it is important to act quickly.

This may involve pruning back any solid green growth or repotting the plant in fresh soil.

If your variegated succulent has already reverted, there are a few things you can do to try and restore its original appearance.

One option is to prune back any solid green growth and wait for new variegated growth to emerge.

Another option is to propagate the plant from a healthy, variegated section.

This can be done by taking a cutting and rooting it in fresh soil.

Keep in mind that not all plants will respond well to propagation, so it is important to do your research before attempting this.

Remember, reversion is a natural part of growing variegated succulents.

While it can be frustrating to see your plant lose its unique appearance, there are steps you can take to prevent and deal with reversion.

With the right care and attention, your variegated succulents can thrive for years to come.

Variegated succulents are a popular addition to any collection, adding a burst of color and pattern to your indoor or outdoor space.

Here are some of the most stunning variegated and multicolor succulents to consider:

This stunning succulent features golden-yellow leaves with red tips, creating a striking contrast.

It is a hybrid of Sempervivum and Sedum, making it a hardy and low-maintenance plant that is perfect for beginners.

Make sure to plant it in well-draining soil and provide it with bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant colors.

This small succulent has delicate, pink-tipped leaves that fade to green towards the center.

It is a slow-growing plant that is perfect for small planters or terrariums.

It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

Lithops are unique succulents that resemble small stones or pebbles.

They come in a variety of colors and patterns, including variegated and multicolor varieties.

These plants require minimal watering and prefer bright, indirect light.

They are perfect for rock gardens or as a conversation starter in your succulent collection.

This delicate succulent features rosettes of green and yellow leaves with pink edges.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

It is also a fragile plant, so handle it with care when transplanting or propagating.

This stunning succulent has green and white leaves that turn pink in bright light.

It is a hardy plant that is perfect for beginners, as it requires minimal watering and can tolerate a range of light conditions.

It can be grown as a small shrub or trained into a bonsai tree.

It is also a popular plant for use in succulent gardens or as a trailing plant in hanging baskets.

This variegated jade plant has green, cream, and pink leaves that create a stunning contrast.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

It is also a popular plant for use in bonsai, as it can be trained into a variety of shapes and sizes.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This delicate succulent has green and white leaves that resemble small pearls.

It is a trailing plant that is perfect for hanging baskets or as a ground cover in succulent gardens.

It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This stunning succulent has rosettes of green and yellow leaves with red edges.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

It is also a fragile plant, so handle it with care when transplanting or propagating.

This stunning succulent has rosettes of green and pink leaves that create a beautiful contrast.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

It is also a popular plant for use in succulent gardens or as a focal point in small planters.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This delicate succulent has rosettes of green and yellow leaves with red edges.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

It is also a fragile plant, so handle it with care when transplanting or propagating.

This stunning succulent has green and pink leaves that create a beautiful contrast.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

It is also a popular plant for use in succulent gardens or as a focal point in small planters.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This unique succulent has green and yellow leaves that create a striking contrast.

It is a fast-growing plant that can quickly take over a planter or garden bed.

It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This stunning succulent has green and pink leaves that create a beautiful contrast.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

It is also a popular plant for use in succulent gardens or as a focal point in small planters.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This unique cactus has green and white spines that create a stunning contrast.

It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of light and soil conditions.

It is also a popular plant for use in rock gardens or as a focal point in small planters.

Be careful when handling it, as the spines can be sharp.

This stunning succulent has rosettes of green and pink leaves with red edges.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

It is also a popular plant for use in succulent gardens or as a focal point in small planters.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This stunning succulent has green and pink leaves that create a beautiful contrast.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

It is also a popular plant for use in succulent gardens or as a focal point in small planters.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This trailing succulent has green and white leaves that resemble ivy.

It is a fast-growing plant that is perfect for hanging baskets or as a ground cover in succulent gardens.

It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This unique cactus has green and pink spines that create a stunning contrast.

It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of light and soil conditions.

It is also a popular plant for use in rock gardens or as a focal point in small planters.

Be careful when handling it, as the spines can be sharp.

This stunning succulent has green and pink leaves that create a beautiful contrast.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

It is also a popular plant for use in succulent gardens or as a focal point in small planters.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This unique cactus has green and white pads that create a striking contrast.

It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of light and soil conditions.

It is also a popular plant for use in rock gardens or as a focal point in small planters.

Be careful when handling it, as the pads can be prickly.

This unique succulent has green and white leaves with small spikes along the edges.

It is a fast-growing plant that is perfect for small planters or as a ground cover in succulent gardens.

It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This variegated jade plant has green and white leaves that resemble fingers.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

It is also a popular plant for use in bonsai, as it can be trained into a variety of shapes and sizes.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This stunning succulent has green and pink leaves that create a beautiful contrast.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

It is also a popular plant for use in succulent gardens or as a focal point in small planters.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This trailing succulent has green and red leaves that resemble a carpet.

It is a fast-growing plant that is perfect for hanging baskets or as a ground cover in succulent gardens.

It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This stunning succulent has rosettes of green and pink leaves with red edges.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.

It is also a popular plant for use in succulent gardens or as a focal point in small planters.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This unique succulent has green and white leaves with small spikes along the edges.

It is a fast-growing plant that is perfect for small planters or as a ground cover in succulent gardens.

It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

Be careful not to overwater it, as it is susceptible to root rot.

This stunning succulent has silver-green leaves that resemble coins.

It is a slow-growing plant that requires well-draining soil