The 2 common names of A. variegate are from the Latin name vaiegata which means 'irregularly spotted' and an Afrikaans name 'kannie dood' meaning 'cannot die'. They can die in gardens though if over-watered or in severe, unnatural conditions in the wild. There main habitat is under the bushes, between rocks or rocky crevices from south of Karasberg towards Helmeringhausen. Flowering times vary from location to location and differ from the end of June to September.
Folk lore holds a number of beliefs for local people. Some indigenous people (to this day apparently), hang plants inside their huts I the belief that if the plant flowers, the women are fertile and will give birth to many children. Another belief is they will guarantee eternal life if planted on a grave.