×Graptoveria 'Mrs Richards Variegata'

Scientific Name

×Graptoveria 'Mrs Richards Variegata'

Accepted Scientific Name

×Graptoveria 'Mrs Richards'

Synonym(s)

×Graptoveria 'Gypsy Variegata'

Scientific Classification

Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Nothogenus: ×Graptoveria

Origin

×Graptoveria 'Mrs Richards Variegata' is a form of ×Graptoveria 'Mrs Richards' selected for its variegated foliage.

Description

×Graptoveria 'Mrs Richards Variegata', also sold as ×Graptoveria 'Gypsy Variegata', is an attractive succulent that forms short-stemmed rosettes of broad leaves with striking silk-like variegation. This plant branches freely from the base, developing a dense clump as it matures. The leaves display various colors, mainly pink tones, along with cream, blue, green, red, lilac, and purple hues that change depending on the season and growing conditions. They are covered with a delicate waxy coating that may rub off when touched. Exposure to bright light and cooler temperatures enhances the vibrancy of the leaf colors.

How to Grow and Care for ×Graptoveria 'Mrs Richards Variegata'

Light: ×Graptoveria 'Mrs Richards Variegata' requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Therefore, place it near the brightest window in your home. In addition, if you are moving the plant outside in spring, do it gradually and avoid exposure to intense afternoon sun.

Soil: It is important to have soil that drains quickly to grow a healthy succulent. While many growers prefer to create their own soil mix, commercial soil will work fine.

Temperature: High temperatures are not a problem as long as there is plenty of fresh air, but ×Graptoveria 'Mrs Richards Variegata' is a tender succulent and must be brought indoors if there is a risk of freezing temperatures. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C).

Watering: During the growing season, the "soak and dry" is the preferred method for this plant. Water deeply and then let the soil completely dry out before watering again. Water sparingly during the winter, only enough to keep the plant from shriveling.

Fertilizing: Although it can grow well without fertilizer, the plant may benefit from extra nutrients. Feed only during the growing season and use a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength.

Repotting: If growing it in a container, repot as needed in spring or early summer, but ensure the soil is dry before you start.

Propagation: The easiest way to get a good-sized new plant is by taking stem cuttings, but ×Graptoveria 'Mrs Richards Variegata' is also easy to propagate by leaves. Spring and summer are the best time to take cuttings.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Echeveria.

Toxicity of ×Graptoveria 'Mrs Richards Variegata'

×Graptoveria 'Mrs Richards Variegata' has no toxic effects reported. But although it is safe for growing around children and pets, eating the plant is not advisable.

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