Graptoveria 'Pink Ruby' is an attractive intergeneric hybrid, a cross between Graptopetalum and Echeveria, celebrated for its compact rosettes of fleshy leaves that often display beautiful shades of pink, especially when stressed by sunlight and cooler temperatures. This relatively low-maintenance succulent combines the graceful form of Echeveria with the resilience of Graptopetalum, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced collectors.
 
Key Features of Graptoveria 'Pink Ruby'
Compact Rosettes: Forms neat, symmetrical rosettes of fleshy leaves.
Spoon-Shaped to Oblong Leaves: The leaves are typically spoon-shaped to oblong with a rounded or slightly pointed tip.
Pink Coloration: Foliage often displays beautiful shades of pink, ranging from soft pastels to more vibrant hues, particularly when exposed to bright light and cooler temperatures.
Powdery Coating (Farina): May have a subtle powdery coating on the leaves, giving them a soft, matte appearance.
Clustering Growth Habit: Mature plants may produce offsets or "chicks" around the base, forming small clusters over time.
Relatively Small to Medium Size: Generally remains a manageable size for container cultivation.
Potential for Flowering: Can produce tall flower stalks bearing clusters of small, star-shaped flowers, often in shades of yellow or orange.
 
Care for Your Graptoveria 'Pink Ruby'
Light: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its compact form and vibrant pink coloration. Some direct morning sun is usually tolerated. Insufficient light can lead to stretching (etiolation) and duller colors.
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 'Pink Ruby'
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 'Pink Ruby' 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
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 longer stems, sections can be cut, allowed to callus, and then planted in well-draining soil.
 
Graptoveria 'Pink Ruby' is a charming and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent prized for its beautiful pink hues and compact rosettes. Its vibrant coloration and graceful form make it a wonderful addition to any succulent 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.