Graptopetalum 'Tricolor' is very similar to Graptopetalum 'Purple Delight', also known as Graptopetalum 'Snow White'. It is sometimes sold as ×Graptoveria 'Tricolor'; however, its star-shaped flowers do not show a sign of the tubular flowers typical of Echeveria.
Scientific Name
Graptopetalum 'Tricolor'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Subtribe: Sedinae
Genus: Graptopetalum
Origin
Graptopetalum 'Tricolor' is a hybrid of unknown origin and parentage.
Description
Graptopetalum 'Tricolor' is a beautiful succulent with thick, fleshy leaves arranged in rosettes at the ends of bare branches. It can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall, branching at the base. The rosettes can reach a diameter of 4 inches (10 cm). Depending on the season and growing conditions, the leaves can vary from gray-green to shades of pink or purple. They have a fine, waxy coating that may rub off when touched.
In spring, Graptopetalum 'Tricolor' produces clusters of star-shaped flowers on usually simple stalks that arise near the stem tips. The flowers have five petals that are typically white with some red spots.
How to Grow and Care for Graptopetalum 'Tricolor'
Light: For your Graptopetalum 'Tricolor' to thrive, ensure it receives plenty of sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade but may look slightly rangy. Therefore, when growing indoors, it is best to keep it near a sunny window.
Soil: Good drainage is most important for a healthy plant, so when growing it in a container, choose well-draining soil and a container with drainage holes.
Temperature: Graptopetalum 'Tricolor' prefers cooler temperatures but is not cold-hardy. Its primary growth occurs during spring and fall, while it slows considerably during winter. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F (- 1.1°C to 10°C).
Watering: Instead of giving the plant little splashes of water here and there, soak the soil until water runs out of the drainage holes. After that, wait for the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Water the plant sparingly during the winter, only enough to keep it from shriveling.
Fertilizing: During the growing season, apply a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength to promote healthy growth and flower production.
Repotting: Graptopetalum 'Tricolor' does not require frequent repotting. However, when it has outgrown its container, repot it in a new pot slightly larger than the old one. After that, give the plant at least a week to readjust before watering.
Propagation: The easiest way to get a good-sized new plant is to take stem cuttings. While it is also easy to propagate it by leaves, they usually do not result in crested plants. Spring and summer are the best times to take cuttings.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Graptopetalum.
Toxicity of Graptopetalum 'Tricolor'
Graptopetalum 'Tricolor' is considered non-toxic, so growing around pets and children is safe.
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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