Graptoveria 'Capella', a Calara hybrid, is an attractive intergeneric succulent, a cross between Graptopetalum and Echeveria, celebrated for its compact rosettes of fleshy leaves that often display beautiful pastel hues and a delicate powdery coating. This charming plant combines the resilience of Graptopetalum with the appealing forms of Echeveria, making it a delightful addition to succulent collections and arrangements.
 
Key Features of Graptoveria 'Capella' (Calara Hybrid)
Compact Rosettes: Forms tight, symmetrical rosettes of fleshy leaves.
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, enhanced by a powdery coating (farina).
Farina (Epicuticular Wax): The leaves are often covered in a powdery white or silvery coating, giving them a soft, matte appearance.
Relatively Small Size: Generally remains a small and manageable succulent.
Potential for Offsets: May produce offsets or "chicks" around the base, allowing for propagation.
Star-Shaped Flowers: Mature plants can produce clusters of small, star-shaped flowers on short stalks, typically in shades of yellow or orange.
 
Care for Your Graptoveria 'Capella' (Calara Hybrid)
Light: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its compact form and coloration. Some direct morning sun or filtered afternoon sun is usually tolerated. 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 'Capella' (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.
Protecting Farina: Handle the leaves gently to avoid damaging the powdery coating. 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 develops a stem, sections can be cut, allowed to callus, and then planted in well-draining soil.
 
Graptoveria 'Capella', a Calara hybrid, is a charming and relatively easy-to-grow succulent prized for its pastel rosettes and delicate powdery coating. Its compact form and subtle beauty 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.