Big Leaf Succulent: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing and Caring for Them

Oleh Marcus Beahan June 17, 2023 Post a Comment

Are you looking for a unique and low-maintenance addition to your garden or indoor plant collection? Look no further than the big leaf succulent! With its striking appearance and easy-to-care-for nature, this plant is perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about growing and caring for big leaf succulents.

Big leaf succulents are a type of plant that stores water within their leaves, making them well adapted to dry climates and able to go long periods without watering. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, but what sets them apart is their large, showy leaves that can measure up to several inches across. Some popular varieties include the Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop', the Kalanchoe beharensis, and the Pachypodium lamerei.

How to Grow Big Leaf Succulents

Soil

Big leaf succulents prefer well-draining soil that doesn't retain too much moisture. You can use a cactus or succulent potting mix or create your own by mixing equal parts sand, perlite, and peat moss. Make sure to plant your succulent in a container with drainage holes to prevent overwatering.

Light

Big leaf succulents thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them near a sunny window or outside in a spot that gets partial shade. If your plant s to stretch or lean towards the light, it may need more sunlight.

Water

As with all succulents, big leaf succulents don't need to be watered frequently. Wait until the soil is completely dry before watering, then give the plant a thorough soaking. Be careful not to get water on the leaves, as this can cause rot.

Temperature

Big leaf succulents prefer warm temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). They can tolerate cooler temperatures but may not grow as quickly.

Propagation

Big leaf succulents can be propagated through stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. To propagate from a stem cutting, simply cut a stem at least three inches long and let it dry out for a few days before planting in well-draining soil. For leaf cuttings, remove a mature leaf from the plant and let it dry out for a day or two before placing it on top of damp soil. Keep the soil moist and new growth should emerge within a few weeks.

How to Care for Big Leaf Succulents

Fertilizer

Big leaf succulents don't need to be fertilized often, but you can give them a boost during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Be sure to dilute the fertilizer to half strength and only apply it once a month.

Pruning

If your big leaf succulent s to look leggy or overgrown, you can prune it back to encourage bushier growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears and make cuts just above a leaf node.

Pests and Diseases

Big leaf succulents are relatively pest and disease-free, but they can occasionally fall prey to mealybugs, spider mites, or scale insects. If you notice any signs of infestation, isolate the plant and treat it with an insecticidal soap.

Popular Varieties of Big Leaf Succulents

Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop': This variety has striking, almost black foliage that contrasts beautifully with bright green rosettes.
Kalanchoe beharensis: Known as the "velvet elephant ear", this plant has large, fuzzy leaves that are soft to the touch.
Pachypodium lamerei: With its tall, spiky form and thick trunk, this succulent is sometimes called the "Madagascar palm".
Crassula ovata 'Gollum': This unique variety has long, tubular leaves that curl inward and resemble fingers.

FAQs about Big Leaf Succulents

Q1: How often should I water my big leaf succulent?

A: Wait until the soil is completely dry before watering, then give the plant a thorough soaking. Depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment, this could be every few weeks to once a month.

Q2: Can big leaf succulents be grown in low light?

A: While big leaf succulents prefer bright, indirect light, they can tolerate lower light conditions. Just make sure not to place them in full shade.

Q3: Do big leaf succulents need to be fertilized?

A: Big leaf succulents don't need to be fertilized often but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season.

Q4: Can big leaf succulents be grown outdoors?

A: Yes! Big leaf succulents can be grown both indoors and outdoors, as long as they are kept in well-draining soil and given enough sunlight.

Q5: How big do big leaf succulents grow?

A: The size of big leaf succulents varies by species, but some can grow up to several feet tall and wide.

Q6: Can big leaf succulents be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes! Big leaf succulents can be propagated through stem or leaf cuttings.

Q7: What pests and diseases do big leaf succulents commonly face?

A: Big leaf succulents are relatively pest and disease-free, but they can occasionally fall prey to mealybugs, spider mites, or scale insects.

Q8: How do I prune my big leaf succulent?

A: Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears and make cuts just above a leaf node to encourage bushier growth.

Q9: Can big leaf succulents be grown in hanging baskets?

A: Yes! In fact, big leaf succulents look great in hanging baskets because their large leaves can cascade down the sides.

Q10: How often should I repot my big leaf succulent?

A: Big leaf succulents don't need to be repotted often and can actually thrive in tight spaces. Repot only when the plant becomes too large for its container or if the soil has become compacted.

Big leaf succulents are a stunning and unique addition to any garden or indoor plant collection. With their easy-to-care-for nature and striking appearance, they're perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. Remember to provide them with well-draining soil, bright but indirect light, and infrequent watering, and you'll have a beautiful and healthy plant that will thrive for years to come.