Graptoveria - Stella
Graptoveria 'Stella' is an attractive intergeneric hybrid, a cross between Graptopetalum and Echeveria, celebrated for its compact rosettes of fleshy leaves that often display subtle coloration and a pleasing form. This relatively low-maintenance succulent combines the graceful shape of Echeveria with the resilience of Graptopetalum, making it a popular choice for succulent enthusiasts.
Key Features of Graptoveria 'Stella'
- Compact Rosettes: Forms neat, symmetrical rosettes of fleshy leaves.
- Spoon-Shaped Leaves with Pointed Tips: The leaves are typically spoon-shaped with a distinct pointed tip.
- Soft Green Coloration with Potential for Subtle Hues: Foliage often exhibits soft shades of green, sometimes with hints of pink or bronze along the edges, particularly when exposed to more sunlight.
- 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.
Care for Your Graptoveria 'Stella'
- Light: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its compact form and coloration. Some direct morning 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 'Stella'
- 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 'Stella' 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 'Stella' is an attractive and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent prized for its compact rosettes and subtle coloration. Its pleasing form makes 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.