Graptosedum 'Bert Swanwick' is an attractive intergeneric hybrid, a cross between Graptopetalum and Sedum, celebrated for its compact rosettes of fleshy, often colorful leaves that can take on beautiful pink and apricot hues, especially when stressed by sunlight and cooler temperatures. This relatively small and clustering succulent is a popular choice for adding subtle warmth and interest to containers, rock gardens, and arrangements.
 
Key Features of Graptosedum 'Bert Swanwick'
Compact Rosettes: Forms small, tight rosettes of fleshy leaves.
Oblong to Spatulate Leaves: The leaves are typically somewhat oblong to spatulate (spoon-shaped) with rounded or slightly pointed tips.
Warm Coloration: Foliage often displays beautiful shades of pink, apricot, and sometimes hints of lavender or bronze, with colors intensifying under specific environmental conditions.
Clustering Growth Habit: Readily produces offsets or "chicks" around the base, forming dense mats or clumps over time.
Relatively Small Size: Generally remains a small and manageable succulent.
Star-Shaped Flowers: Mature plants produce clusters of small, star-shaped flowers on short stalks, typically yellow or white.
 
Care for Your Graptosedum 'Bert Swanwick'
Light: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight to maintain vibrant colors and compact growth. Some direct morning sun or filtered afternoon sun is usually tolerated well. Insufficient light can lead to stretching (etiolation) and duller colors.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering is a significant risk. Reduce watering during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to typical household humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosettes.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger with drainage holes. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Protecting Farina: Some varieties may have a powdery coating (farina); handle gently if present. Water from the base.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and aphids. Treat any infestations promptly.
Fertilizing: Generally does not require heavy feeding. A diluted balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer).
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Offsets (Chicks): Carefully separate offsets that have developed their own root systems from the mother plant. Allow the cut surfaces to callus over for a day or two before planting them in well-draining soil.
Leaf Cuttings: Select healthy, plump leaves and allow the cut end to callus for several days. Place the callused leaf on top of well-draining soil or slightly bury the callused end. Mist lightly and provide indirect light until roots and new plantlets emerge.
Stem Cuttings: If the plant has developed longer stems, sections can be cut, allowed to callus, and then planted in well-draining soil.
 
Graptosedum 'Bert Swanwick' is a charming and relatively easy-to-grow succulent that offers delightful rosettes with warm pink and apricot hues. Its compact, clustering growth habit makes it a wonderful addition to various succulent displays.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.