Graptosedum - Coralee
Graptosedum 'Coralee' is a captivating intergeneric hybrid, a cross between Graptopetalum and Sedum, celebrated for its vibrant, ever-changing colors and compact, clustering growth habit. This delightful succulent displays hues ranging from bronze and copper to pink and purple, particularly when exposed to ample sunlight and cooler temperatures, making it a visually dynamic addition to any succulent collection.
Key Features of Graptosedum 'Coralee'
- Compact Rosettes: Forms small, tight rosettes of fleshy, pointed leaves.
- Color-Changing Foliage: Exhibits a remarkable color transformation throughout the year, displaying shades of bronze, copper, pink, and purple, influenced by light and temperature.
- Clustering Growth Habit: Readily produces offsets or "chicks" around the base, forming dense mats or clumps over time.
- Fleshy, Oblong Leaves: The leaves are typically oblong with a pointed tip and a slightly keel-shaped underside.
- 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 orange.
Care for Your Graptosedum 'Coralee'
- Light: Thrives in full sun to bright, indirect sunlight to achieve the most vibrant colors. Insufficient light can lead to green, leggy growth.
- 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 Graptosedum 'Coralee'
- 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.
- 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: Sections of stems can be cut, allowed to callus, and then planted in well-draining soil.
Graptosedum 'Coralee' is a delightful and relatively easy-to-grow succulent prized for its ever-changing, colorful foliage and compact, clustering habit. Its dynamic appearance and simple care requirements make it a wonderful addition to any succulent enthusiast's collection.
Sources and related content
* 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.