Scientific Name
Graptopetalum superbum f. variegatum
Accepted Scientific Name
Graptopetalum superbum (Kimnach) Acev.-Rosas
Common Name(s)
Beautiful Graptopetalum
Synonym(s)
Graptopetalum pentandrum subsp. superbum f. variegatum
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Subtribe: Sedinae
Genus: Graptopetalum
Origin
Graptopetalum superbum f. variegatum is a variegated form of Graptopetalum superbum. Graptopetalum superbum is native to the Mexican state of Jalisco.
Description
Graptopetalum superbum f. variegatum, formerly known as Graptopetalum pentandrum subsp. superbum f. variegatum, is an attractive succulent with variegated leaves that cluster in flat rosettes at the end of its thick stems. The rosettes can reach a diameter of 5 inches (12.5 cm). The leaves are pale gray-lavender to pink with irregular creamy-yellow stripes.
From late winter to early spring, flowers appear on branched stalks that can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall. The flowers are small and have pale yellow petals with red markings on the tips and red stigma lobes and stamens.
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. In addition, they require gritty, porous soil with excellent drainage. Water your plants regularly over the summer, letting the soil dry out between waterings. Minimal water is required over winter. Overwatering causes 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 easily propagated 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 quickly root below the parent plant and produce a new rosette. The new plant feeds off the leaf until it shrivels and falls off. By then, the new little plant had rooted and sprouted new leaves.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Graptopetalum.
Links
- Back to genus Graptopetalum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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