For a succulent that offers both unique texture and subtle colour shifts, Lavender Scallops is a delightful choice. Also known as South American Air Plant, this low-growing, bushy evergreen succulent features fleshy, paddle-shaped leaves in a soft, powdery blue-green to lavender-grey, each adorned with neatly scalloped edges that turn brilliant pink, rose, or red when kissed by sun or drought. Those attractive leaves are arranged along smooth, rounded stems that gently arch and root where they touch the soil, forming a lush, textured colony. In late winter through spring, delicate, bell-shaped, pendant flowers in shades of orange, coral, or apricot appear on slender stems above the foliage.
Native to Madagascar, this adaptable succulent is wonderfully suited to the Western Cape’s climate. It thrives in full sun to partial shade—the most intense pink and red leaf margins develop in brighter light. It demands very well-drained, sandy or gritty soil and is remarkably drought-tolerant once established, preferring the “soak and dry” watering method. It appreciates good air circulation and tolerates light frost for short periods, but needs protection from severe frost in colder inland valleys. Reaching 25–40cm tall and spreading up to 60cm wide, it’s perfect for containers, hanging baskets, rock gardens, or as colourful, textural groundcover.
Key Features:
- Distinctive, fleshy, blue-green leaves with scalloped edges that blush pink, coral, or reddish-brown in the sun
- Small, dangling, coral-orange to apricot-pink flowers in late winter to spring
- Water-wise; thrives with minimal water once established
- Stems root as they spread, forming a dense, weed-suppressing mat
Gardening Note: Plant in well-drained, sandy or cactus soil in full sun to bright filtered light—more sun encourages the pinkest leaf edges. Water regularly until established, then allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Easily propagated, as new plantlets form along leaf margins and stems root readily. Protect from severe frost by moving container plants to a sheltered patio in winter.
