Light Requirements: Prefers bright, direct sunlight for optimal coloration and compact growth. It can tolerate partial sun but may lose its vibrant variegation and become stretched if light is insufficient.
Watering Needs: Water deeply but only when the soil is completely dry. This succulent is drought-tolerant and susceptible to overwatering. Water even less frequently during the winter months.
Soil Preference: Use a fast-draining cactus or succulent mix. Incorporate additional pumice or coarse sand to improve drainage and reduce the risk of root rot.
How to Fertilize: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring through early fall) with a diluted, balanced cactus fertilizer once every 4–6 weeks. Do not fertilize in winter.
Hardiness Zone: Suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 10–11. It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected or brought indoors in cooler climates.
Pet Safety: Non-toxic to pets. It is safe around cats and dogs, though ingestion of any plant may still cause mild digestive upset in sensitive animals.
Additional Care Tips: This species forms low, colorful mats and may produce small pink flowers in summer. For the best variegation, provide as much sun as possible. It propagates easily from offsets or leaf cuttings. Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes crowded, ensuring excellent drainage in the new container.
