Graptopetalum saxifragoides

Scientific Name

Graptopetalum saxifragoides Kimnach

Synonym(s)

Graptopetalum saxifragoides var. saxifragoides

Scientific Classification

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

Description

Graptopetalum saxifragoides is a mat-forming succulent that forms dense rosettes of thick, pale green, or completely reddish leaves. The rosettes grow up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter. Leaves are up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) long and 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) wide. Flowers are creamy-white to yellowish, patterned with brownish-violet, 5-petaled, and up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) across.

Hardiness

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

How to Grow and Care

The rules for Graptopetalum care are similar to those for most succulents. All require lots of sunlight to look their best. They require gritty, porous soil with excellent drainage. Water regularly over the summer months and let 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 1/4 strength.

Graptopetalums are generally easy to propagate by seeds, leaf cuttings, or offsets. Any rosette that breaks off has the potential to root and start a new plant. Even a leaf that drops off will root below the parent plant and produce a new rosette quickly. The new plant feeds off the leaf until it shrivels up and falls off. By then, the new little plant has rooted and sprouted new leaves.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Graptopetalum.