Graptopetalum

Graptopetalum is a small genus of 12 species from Mexico and southwestern USA. They are similar looking to Echeverias, although they are generally considered closer to Sedums. They are attractive rosette plants with thick subtly colored leaves, occasionally speckled.

They will take a light frost but are sensitive to excess heat and it is difficult to keep them alive in summer in the low deserts of Arizona.

They have 0.5 inch wide (1.2 cm), upward-facing, white with red spota, or red, star-shaped flowers. They are long lasting and produced in summer and fall. They are followed by tiny seed pods.

The Graptopetalums are generally easy to propagate, by seeds, leaf cuttings or offsets.

Species and varieties
Graptopetalum amethystinum (Lavender Pebbles, Jewel-Leaf Plant)
Graptopetalum paraguayense (Ghost Plant, Mother of Pearl Plant)

© 2004 Philippe Faucon, All Rights Reserved.