Gasteria 'D.Due' – Rare Mutation with Mottled, Sculptural Leaves


Gasteria 'D.Due' is a naturally occurring whole-plant mutation of the cultivar Gasteria ‘WT10’, known for its compact form and intense leaf patterning. This mutation features slightly twisted, chunky leaves densely marked with pale green and white mottling on a dark green base. The leaves grow in a loose rosette or stacked spiral, depending on conditions, with a firm, succulent texture and faint surface roughness. Its slow, deliberate growth, unique texture, and variegation-like patterning make it a striking specimen for collectors of unusual succulents.


Leaf Pattern and Growth Traits of Gasteria 'D.Due'



 
Leaf shape: Thick, triangular to strap-like, slightly twisted or curved
 
Surface texture: Firm and rough, with semi-gloss finish and raised markings
 
Colour: Dark green base with pale speckles and irregular striping
 
Growth habit: Compact, slow-growing rosette; may offset over time
 
Indoor size: Typically 10–15 cm tall and wide; larger in ideal conditions


Background and Mutation Origin of Gasteria 'D.Due'


Gasteria 'D.Due' emerged as a stable, whole-plant mutation from the cultivar Gasteria ‘WT10’, itself a compact and ornamental form of the genus. Native Gasteria species grow in arid to semi-arid regions of South Africa, often tucked in rocky crevices or shaded under sparse vegetation. This cultivar carries those survival traits—thick leaves, slow metabolism, and drought tolerance—but in a uniquely ornamental package. It prefers indirect light and neglect-friendly watering, making it both visually striking and low-effort indoors.
Gasteria 'D.Due' is non-toxic and safe to grow around pets and children.


How to Care for Gasteria 'D.Due'



 
Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal; can tolerate some direct morning or late sun
 
Watering: Water deeply, but only when soil is fully dry—typically every 2–3 weeks
 
Humidity: Tolerates dry air perfectly; no need to increase ambient moisture
 
Temperature: Best kept between 18–26 °C; protect from frost or cold windows
 
Soil: Gritty, fast-draining succulent mix with sand or perlite
 
Repotting: Rarely needed—only when outgrowing its pot or for propagation
 
Fertilising: Feed 2–3 times per year with diluted cactus fertiliser during active growth
 
Propagation: Through offsets (pups) once mature—grows slowly
 
Hydroponics: Not suitable; requires dry cycles and root aeration
 
Pruning: Not necessary—simply remove dried lower leaves


Common Issues with Gasteria 'D.Due'



 
Leaf shrivelling: Caused by prolonged dryness—rehydrate thoroughly
 
Mushy leaves or stem rot: Result of overwatering—remove rot and repot in dry mix
 
Sunburn: White or brown patches from too much direct sun—move to filtered light
 
Fungus gnats: Allow mix to dry fully between watering and add grit to surface
 
Scale insects: Rare, but may appear near base—treat early with neem or insecticidal soap


Additional Notes for Growing Gasteria 'D.Due'


Like its parent cultivar, 'D.Due' prefers to be left alone—too much water, light, or movement can stress its slow rhythm. Best grown in shallow pots with excellent drainage and bright but soft light. Mimicking its South African origins—dry spells, rocky soil, warm air—will help it keep its compact, sculptural form. As a stable mutation, its leaf patterns hold reliably across new growth and offsets.


Etymology and Classification of Gasteria


Gasteria is named from the Latin “gaster” (stomach), referencing the swollen, pouch-like shape of its flowers. The cultivar name 'D.Due' refers to the selected mutation of ‘WT10’, although the exact origin of the name remains informal. This plant remains within the Gasteria genus but is cultivated primarily for ornamental foliage rather than blooms.


FAQs about Gasteria 'D.Due'



 
Is it variegated?

 No—but the speckled and banded patterning gives it a variegated appearance.
 
How fast does it grow?

 Very slowly—expect modest leaf production annually, with occasional offsets once mature.
 
Can it be grown under grow lights?

 Yes—use a full-spectrum LED with moderate intensity to maintain colour and shape.


Buy Gasteria 'D.Due' Now


Compact, patterned, and sculptural—Gasteria 'D.Due' is a rare succulent mutation that delivers bold texture with minimal effort. Order now and add a unique, slow-growing beauty to your collection.