TheNaturePlanet

When visiting the succulent plant market, are you always attracted by those variegated succulents with extremely vivid colors? Don't rush to buy them! Many succulents that look extremely beautiful may be "medicinal variegated" ones. Today, I will teach you step by step how to identify whether a succulent plant is "medicinal variegated" to avoid falling into traps!

Characteristics of Medicinal Variegated Succulents

1. Color
The color of medicinal variegated succulents is very strange. The white parts are as white as wall paint, and the yellow parts are so bright that they are dazzling, which doesn't match the original green color at all! Moreover, the newly grown leaves will gradually fade, and the color will become lighter and lighter. It is not as durable and beautiful as the naturally variegated ones.

2. Position
The white and yellow patches of medicinal variegated succulents are clustered in the center of the leaves, while the old leaves below are still green. The color distribution of naturally variegated succulents is relatively even and will not be so "layered".

3. Shape
The patterns of normally variegated succulents are crooked and very casual. However, the variegated patches of medicinal variegated succulents are like they have been measured with a ruler, and they are all horizontal stripes. The boundary line with the green leaves is also particularly rigid, without any sense of transition.

4. Discontinuity
Some leaves of medicinal variegated succulents are directly discontinuous, with one half green and the other half white, and there is no gradient in the middle. The color of naturally variegated succulents gradually spreads and looks very comfortable.

Attention! Don't be deceived by the appearance of medicinal variegated succulents! The succulents that have been sprayed with medicine are actually already damaged. Their chlorophyll has been destroyed, and their photosynthesis ability becomes worse. Their resistance also drops sharply. They are likely to experience black rot and insect infestations, and most of them can't be kept alive. Even if they manage to survive, it's very difficult for them to regain their health, and they can only be regarded as "one-time ornamental items" in the end.

Tips to Avoid Traps
Don't be greedy for bargains: Naturally variegated succulents are originally expensive. If you come across "extremely beautiful variegated" succulents at an extremely low price, there is a high probability that they are medicinal variegated ones.
Observe more and ask more: If you're not sure, take a photo and ask in the succulent plant enthusiasts' group. Or buy from a reliable greenhouse store, at least there is a guarantee for after-sales service.
Recognize natural beauty: Choose those succulents with a natural color transition and plump leaves. Although they are not as stunning as the medicinal variegated ones, they are easier to take care of.