Picture via gardentags
Basic Info
X Alworthia is also commonly known as ‘Black Gem’. The plants main feature are the green to dark green leaves that grow triangular and pointy. This is an ideal plant for succulent growers who are new to plant care.
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Genus: X Alworthia
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
X Alworthia ‘Black Gem’ 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 Black Gem 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 X Alworthia ‘Black Gem’
This succulent type is a rare one that blooms in the spring. When it blooms, expect a beautiful flower. 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
- Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
- Does not handle cold well
- Prefers Zone 9a-11b -6.7 °C (20 F)
- Best propagated by offsets, cuttings or seeds
- Changes color depending on the amount of sun it gets
Where to Plant
X Alworthia ‘Black Gem’ 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 9a-11b which is around -6.7 °C (20 °F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant Black Gem 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 X Alworthia ‘Black Gem’
Black Gem can be propagated by seeds, offsets or cuttings. 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 X Alworthia ‘Black Gem’ From Cuttings
When propagating Black Gem 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 X Alworthia ‘Black Gem’ From Offsets
Black Gem propagates from offsets. To be able to propagate from the mother plant, you might wait several years for the main plant to produce an offset. To start this process, use a sharp knife and remove an offset from the main plant. When you remove the offset, clean the extra soil from it. 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 Black Gem 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
Black Gem is native to known to be a intergeneric hybrid between the Haworthia Cymbiformis and Aloe Speciosa
