Graptoveria - Rubra
Graptoveria 'Rubra' is a striking succulent celebrated for its rosettes of fleshy leaves that exhibit rich, warm tones. This succulent forms rosettes composed of somewhat elongated, pointed leaves. These leaves display a beautiful gradient of color, ranging from olive green at the base to vibrant shades of bronze, copper, and reddish-pink towards the tips and edges, particularly on the more exposed leaves. The overall appearance is a cluster of substantial, colorful rosettes.
Key Features of Graptoveria 'Rubra'
- Substantial Rosettes: Forms noticeable rosettes of fleshy leaves.
- Elongated, Pointed Leaves: The leaves are typically elongated with a distinct pointed tip.
- Warm Color Gradient: Exhibits a beautiful transition of colors from olive green to bronze, copper, and reddish-pink.
- Clustering Growth Habit: Mature plants often produce offsets or "chicks" around the base, forming clusters over time.
- Relatively Medium to Large Size: Grows to a noticeable size compared to many other succulents.
- Potential for Flowering: Can produce tall flower stalks bearing clusters of small, star-shaped flowers.
Care for Your Graptoveria 'Rubra'
- Light: Thrives in full sun to bright, indirect sunlight to achieve the most vibrant colors. Insufficient light can lead to greener, less intense coloration and stretching.
- 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 'Rubra'
- 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.
Graptoveria 'Rubra' is a striking and relatively easy-to-grow succulent prized for its substantial rosettes and warm, colorful foliage. Its bold appearance makes it a wonderful focal point in 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.