Graptosedum - Glauca
Graptosedum 'Glauca' is a charming intergeneric hybrid, a cross between Graptopetalum and Sedum, celebrated for its delicate, powdery blue-grey foliage and its tendency to form attractive, trailing stems. This relatively easy-to-grow succulent offers a soft, elegant touch to containers, rock gardens, and succulent arrangements.
Key Features of Graptosedum 'Glauca'
- Powdery Blue-Grey Foliage: The leaves exhibit a soft, powdery blue-grey coloration due to a farina (epicuticular wax) covering.
- Elongated, Finger-Like Leaves: The leaves are typically elongated, somewhat cylindrical or finger-like, with a slightly pointed tip.
- Rosette-like Clusters: Leaves are often arranged in loose, rosette-like clusters along the stems.
- Trailing Growth Habit: Develops trailing stems that can cascade gracefully over the edges of containers.
- Relatively Small Size: Generally remains a small to medium-sized succulent.
- Star-Shaped Flowers: Mature plants produce clusters of small, star-shaped flowers on short stalks, typically white or pale yellow.
Care for Your Graptosedum 'Glauca'
- Light: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its coloration and compact growth. Some direct morning sun is usually tolerated. Insufficient light can lead to greener, 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 'Glauca'
- Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the stems.
- Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger with good drainage holes. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
- Protecting Farina: If your 'Glauca' has a powdery coating (farina), handle the leaves gently to avoid damaging this protective layer. 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
- Stem Cuttings: A very easy and reliable method. Take stem cuttings a few inches long, allow the cut ends to callus over for a day or two, and then plant them in well-draining soil. They root readily.
- Leaf Cuttings: Can also be propagated from individual leaves. Gently detach a healthy leaf, allow the cut end to callus, and then place it on well-draining soil. New plantlets will eventually emerge.
Graptosedum 'Glauca' is a charming and relatively easy-to-grow succulent prized for its soft blue-grey foliage and trailing habit. Its delicate 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.