[Overview]
An evergreen perennial to shrub.
A succulent.
The leaves form rosettes and are thick.
The color and shape of the leaves vary.
Some turn red in winter.
Racemes, spikes or panicles arise from the leaf axils.
The corolla is 5-lobed.
The fruit is a follicle.
[Cultivation]
Propagate from seed, by division, or by leaf cuttings.
It prefers a sunny, well-drained, well-ventilated environment.
It can overwinter outdoors if protected from frost and cold wind.
It tolerates shade and slightly moist soil, but plenty of sun gives it its natural form.
Place pots on a shelf or similar so air can reach the bottom, and move them out of the rain during long rainy spells.
It dislikes heat and humidity, so in summer move it to cool, airy partial shade.
Water thoroughly only after the soil in the pot has dried all the way through.
Water collecting in the rosette can cause disease, so pour water gently around the edge of the pot.
Keep it on the dry side in winter.
In spring, apply a small amount of slow-release fertilizer.
Pests and diseases include rust, black spot, soft rot and scale insects.
