×Graptoveria 'Opalina Cristata' is a small but very interesting succulent.
Scientific Name
×Graptoveria 'Opalina Cristata'
Accepted Scientific Name
×Graptoveria 'Opalina'
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sempervivoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Nothogenus: ×Graptoveria
Origin
×Graptoveria 'Opalina Cristata' is a form of ×Graptoveria 'Opalina' selected for its mutated growth.
Description
×Graptoveria 'Opalina Cristata' is a fascinating succulent with opalescent leaves densely packed on crested stems. When exposed to bright sunlight, the fleshy, powdery blue-green leaves take on pink hues on the tips and margins. They stay pretty upright and are shorter and narrower than normal ×Graptoveria 'Opalina'. Each specimen has its unique shape.
How to Grow and Care for ×Graptoveria 'Opalina Cristata'
Light: ×Graptoveria 'Opalina Cristata' 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: Having soil that drains quickly is most important for growing a healthy succulent. While many growers prefer to create their own soil mix, commercial soil specially formulated for succulents will work fine.
Temperature: High temperatures are not a problem as long as there is plenty of fresh air, but ×Graptoveria 'Opalina Cristata' 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, this plant prefers the "soak and dry" method. 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. Above all, if you have a saucer under the pot, do not forget to empty the excess water.
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. Also, always use a container with drainage holes.
Propagation: ×Graptoveria 'Opalina Cristata' is easily propagated by stem cuttings in spring.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Echeveria.
Toxicity of ×Graptoveria 'Opalina Cristata'
×Graptoveria 'Opalina Cristata' has no toxic effects reported. But although the plant is safe for growing around children and pets, eating it is not advisable.
Links
- Back to nothogenus ×Graptoveria
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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