Graptoveria - Acaulis
Graptoveria 'Acaulis' is an attractive intergeneric hybrid, a cross between Graptopetalum and Echeveria, celebrated for its compact, stemless rosettes of fleshy leaves that often display beautiful pastel hues. This relatively low-growing succulent is a popular choice for adding a touch of delicate beauty to containers, rock gardens, and arrangements.
Key Features of Graptoveria 'Acaulis'
- Stemless Rosettes: Forms tight, ground-hugging rosettes with very little to no visible stem.
- Spoon-Shaped to Oblong Leaves: The leaves are typically spoon-shaped to oblong with rounded or slightly pointed tips.
- Pastel Coloration: Foliage often exhibits soft pastel shades of pink, lavender, or grey-blue, sometimes with a powdery coating (farina).
- Clustering Growth Habit: Mature plants often produce offsets or "chicks" around the base, forming dense clusters over time.
- Relatively Small Size: Generally remains a small and compact succulent.
- Star-Shaped Flowers: Mature plants can produce clusters of small, star-shaped flowers on short stalks, typically white or pale yellow with reddish speckles.
Care for Your Graptoveria 'Acaulis'
- Light: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight to maintain vibrant colors and compact growth. Some direct morning sun is usually tolerated well. Insufficient light can lead to stretching (etiolation).
- 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 Graptoveria 'Acaulis'
- 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: If your 'Acaulis' has 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
- 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.
Graptoveria 'Acaulis' is a charming and relatively easy-to-grow succulent that offers delightful stemless rosettes and the potential for beautiful pastel coloration. Its compact form makes it a wonderful addition to small containers and arrangements.
* 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.