Graptosedum - Nova
Graptosedum 'Nova' is a captivating intergeneric Calara Hybrid, a cross between Graptopetalum and Sedum, celebrated for its attractive foliage that transitions from green to rich coppery bronze hues, often intensifying with sunlight and cooler temperatures. This relatively easy-to-grow succulent forms compact rosettes that can eventually trail or mound, making it a visually appealing addition to various succulent displays.
Key Features of Graptosedum 'Nova' (Calara Hybrid)
- Color-Changing Foliage: Exhibits a beautiful color transformation, typically starting as green and maturing to warm coppery bronze tones, often influenced by light and temperature.
- Compact Rosettes: Forms small to medium-sized, tight rosettes of fleshy leaves.
- Oblong to Finger-Like Leaves: The leaves are typically oblong or slightly finger-like with a rounded or somewhat pointed tip.
- Clustering Growth Habit: Readily produces offsets or "chicks" around the base, forming dense clusters or mats over time.
- Relatively Small Size: Generally remains a small to medium-sized succulent.
- Star-Shaped Flowers: Mature plants can produce clusters of small, star-shaped flowers on short stalks, typically yellow or orange.
Care for Your Graptosedum 'Nova' (Calara Hybrid)
- Light: Thrives in full sun to bright, indirect sunlight to achieve the most vibrant colors. 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 'Nova' (Calara Hybrid)
- 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 'Nova', a Calara Hybrid, is a delightful and relatively easy-to-grow succulent prized for its attractive foliage that transitions from green to rich coppery bronze. Its vibrant colors and simple care requirements make it a wonderful addition to any succulent enthusiast's collection.
* 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.