Contents
Description
Aichryson Domesticum Variegata or the Variegated Houseleek is a succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. This slow-growing plant is native to the Canary Islands and is commonly grown as a houseplant. The Variegated Houseleek is a small, rosette-forming plant that can grow up to 6 inches in diameter. The leaves of this plant are green, white, and pink, and they are covered with tiny hairs that give them a fuzzy texture. The Variegated Houseleek produces a tall stalk with small, yellow flowers that bloom in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Aichryson |
Appearance
The Variegated Houseleek is a small, rosette-forming plant that can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. The leaves of this plant are green, white, and pink, and they are covered with tiny hairs that give them a fuzzy texture. The leaves grow in a spiral pattern, forming a tight rosette. The Variegated Houseleek produces a tall stalk with small, yellow flowers that bloom in the spring. The flowers are small and star-shaped, and they grow in clusters at the top of the stalk.
Care Guide
The Variegated Houseleek is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:- Water: The Variegated Houseleek prefers well-draining soil, so make sure to water it when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The Variegated Houseleek prefers well-draining soil. You can use a cactus mix or a succulent mix.- Sunlight: The Variegated Houseleek prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: The Variegated Houseleek can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Variegated Houseleek is a relatively pest-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent these pests, make sure to keep the plant clean and dust-free. If you see any pests, you can use a mild insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
Habitat
The Variegated Houseleek is native to the Canary Islands, where it grows in rocky, volcanic soil. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate hot, dry conditions. The Variegated Houseleek is commonly grown as a houseplant or in rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Variegated Houseleek?
A: Water your Variegated Houseleek when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Q: Can I grow my Variegated Houseleek outdoors?
A: Yes, you can grow your Variegated Houseleek outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11.
Q: Does the Variegated Houseleek require a lot of sunlight?
A: The Variegated Houseleek prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Variegated Houseleek?
A: Fertilize your Variegated Houseleek once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
– Aichryson Laxum- Aichryson Tortuosum- Aichryson Villosum- Aichryson Webberi
References
– “Aichryson Domesticum Variegatum.” World of Succulents. Accessed 6 May 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/aichryson-domesticum-variegatum-variegated-houseleek/.- “Aichryson Domesticum Variegatum.” Mountain Crest Gardens. Accessed 6 May 2021. https://mountaincrestgardens.com/aichryson-domesticum-variegatum/.
