Graptopetalum 'Mirinae'

Scientific Name

Graptopetalum 'Mirinae'

Scientific Classification

Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Subtribe: Sedinae
Genus: Graptopetalum

Description

Graptopetalum 'Mirinae' is a succulent shrublet that forms small rosettes of fleshy leaves at the end of the branches. The rosettes can reach a diameter of 1.2 inches (3 cm). The branches are at first erect, becoming decumbent as they grow. The leaves measure up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) long and 0.2 inches (5 mm) wide.

The flowers are star-shaped with 3, 4, or 5 white petals with more or less tiny red dots, about 0.4 inches (1 cm) in diameter, and appear on branched stalks in spring or summer.

This plant is known as ×Graptosedum 'Vera Higgins' in Korea, but this name is incorrect as it is a synonymous name of ×Graptosedum 'Bronze', a distinctly different plant.

Origin

Graptopetalum 'Mirinae' is possibly a Graptopetalum hybrid, as its flowers do not show an influence of Sedum or Echeveria. However, its parentage is unknown. While it resembles Graptopetalum mendozae, it does not have the same type of rosettes. Additionally, its flowers are not pure white as those of Graptopetalum mendozae.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

The rules for Graptopetalums care are similar to those for most succulents. All require lots of sunlight to look their best. They need gritty porous soil with excellent drainage. Water the plants regularly over the summer months letting the soil dry out between waterings. Minimal water is required over winter. Overwatering is a cause of root rots, and the plant can get several pest infestations. Fertilize once during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to ¼ strength.

The Graptopetalums are generally easily propagated by seeds, leaf cuttings, or offsets. Any rosette that breaks off can root and start a new plant. Even a leaf that drops off will quickly root below the parent plant and produce a new rosette. The new plant feeds off the leaf until it shrivels up and falls off. The new little ghost plant had rooted and sprouted new leaves by then.

See more at How to Grow and Care for Graptopetalum.

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