Picture via agaveville.org
Basic Info
Gerrardanthus Macrorhizus is commonly known as ‘Bigfoot’. As the plant matures expect it to reach up to 40 cm (16″) in diameter. The plants main feature are the green leaves that grow up from the brown compact stem. When the plant produces flowers expect them to be brown-yellow.
Scientific Classification
Family: Cucurbitaceae
Tribe: Zanonieae
Genus: Gerrardanthus
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
Gerrardanthus Macrorhizus ‘Bigfoot’ can be quite beautiful when it is well-taken care of. This succulent type needs typical watering as the other succulents. The watering method is very important to keep your Bigfoot healthy. It should not sit on the water, and an excess amount of water should be avoided. The best way of watering is soak and dry method this succulent. Yet, the succulent should be controlled to avoid overwatering.
General Care for Gerrardanthus Macrorhizus ‘Bigfoot’
This succulent type is a unique one that blooms in the spring. When it blooms, you will enjoy brown-yellow flowers. It is a nice addition to your collection of plants especially if you have it displayed in a beautiful pot.
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Quick Facts:
- Prefers full sun
- Can be grown outdoor
- Grows 40 cm (16″) tall
- Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
- Does not handle cold well
- Prefers Zone 9b-11b -3.9°C (25°F)
- Best propagated by cuttings, leaves or seeds
- Flowers are brown-yellow
Where to Plant
Gerrardanthus Macrorhizus ‘Bigfoot’ succulents need strong light. When planting this succulent type in a garden, make sure it gets sunlight. Full to partial sun is the best for its growth. It is better to grow outdoor rather than indoor.
This type of succulent prefers a warm climate. It can survive at zone 9b-11b which is around -3.9°C (25°F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant Bigfoot in an indoor environment. As long as it gets enough sunlight, the plant will grow happily.
When selecting what pot to use be sure that you understand the difference between the material used (See our guide on how to pick the best plant pot).
How to Propagate Gerrardanthus Macrorhizus ‘Bigfoot’
Bigfoot can be propagated by cuttings, leaves or seeds. This succulent type does not require repotting often. Of course, the first-time repotting is essential when it is bought from the store. You can learn all about How To Repot Succulents in our guide.
Like all the other succulent types, a well-drained soil mixture is essential. If you want to know about well-drained soil mixtures, check How to Prepare Well-drained Soil for Succulent Plants.
How to Propagate Gerrardanthus Macrorhizus ‘Bigfoot’ By Leaves
When propagating Bigfoot with leaves. (Learn How to Propagate Succulents in detail here.) You should get a leave carefully from the mother plant. It should be a healthy leave that has no part left on the stem. In this way, the propagation will work. Before replanting, wait for a few days to allow it to callous. Use well-draining soil for your new succulent plant. Don’t forget to water when the soil dries out.
How to Propagate Gerrardanthus Macrorhizus ‘Bigfoot’ From Cuttings
When propagating Bigfoot from cuttings, cut a leaf from the mother plant carefully with a clean knife or scissors. Before replanting, wait for a few days to allow it to callous. Use well-draining soil for your new succulent plant. Don’t forget to water when the soil dries out.
How to Propagate Gerrardanthus Macrorhizus ‘Bigfoot’ Using Seeds
This succulent type is a slow grower so even if it can be propagated by its seeds, this method is not recommended. To propagate from the seeds, plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture. This method can be used outdoors. In cooler areas, indoor propagating is recommended.
Origin and Habitat
Gerrardanthus Macrorhizus ‘Bigfoot’ is native to Swaziland and South Africa.
