Graptopetalum pachyphytum
Thorny plants are very decorative, but … succulent plants are not far behind. And it is that there are species with leaves distributed in such a way that they look like a flower, and others like our protagonists, that just by seeing them many of us we fall in love.
They are ideal to have in pots, make compositions, decorate the patio or home … Not only are they very beautiful, but also their cultivation is really very simple. Meet the Graptopetalum.
Paraguayan Graptopetalum
This genus of succulent plants does not have thorns; on the contrary, its leaves are fleshy, because that is where they have their greatest reserves of water. It includes around 18 accepted species, but if they seem few to you… you should know that very interesting hybrids appear from time to time. In fact, It is common to cross the Graptopetalum with the Echeveriasince both genera belong to the same family (Crassulaceae), thus giving rise to a botanical genus: Graptoveria.
The Graptopetalum are native to Arizona and Mexico, where they live in areas exposed to the sun and whose rainfall is scarce. The soil in which they grow and develop is very porous, thus avoiding waterlogging.
Graptopetalum macdougalii
It is, therefore, very necessary use a sandy substrate or, if it cannot be obtained, mix black peat with perlite in equal parts. However, let me also tell you that they can live only in peat, as long as the risks are controlled. It is important that we water once a week in summer, and every 15 days the rest of the year (unless we see that the land is very dry).
Located in full sun, they can withstand temperatures of up to -2ºC. If winter is much colder in your area, you can have it indoors while spring arrives. Place it in a very bright room, away from drafts, and it will pass those months without problems .
Graptopetalum »Silent War»
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