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Description
Graptoveria Opalina is a hybrid succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is a cross between two different species of succulent plants, namely Graptopetalum paraguayense and Echeveria derenbergii. This plant is also known as Jewel Leaf Plant or Ghost Plant. Graptoveria Opalina is a small and compact plant that can grow up to 15 centimeters in height and 30 centimeters in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Graptoveria |
Appearance
Graptoveria Opalina has rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves that are arranged in a spiral pattern. The leaves are oblong and pointed, with a bluish-green color that can turn pinkish or purple under stress. The edges of the leaves are lined with small, white hairs, giving the plant a fuzzy appearance. The plant produces small, star-shaped flowers on long stems that can reach up to 30 centimeters in height. The flowers are pink, red, or yellow in color and appear in the summer.
Care Guide
Graptoveria Opalina is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Graptoveria Opalina needs to be watered once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the winter. It is important to let the soil dry out completely between watering to prevent root rot.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require frequent fertilization. It can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Graptoveria Opalina prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss can be used to create a suitable growing medium.
- Sunlight: This plant needs bright, indirect sunlight for at least 6 hours a day to thrive. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Graptoveria Opalina can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Graptoveria Opalina is a relatively pest-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to common succulent pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not watered too frequently.
Habitat
Graptoveria Opalina is native to Mexico and is commonly found growing in rocky, well-draining soil on hillsides and cliffs. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in hot and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
- Q: Can Graptoveria Opalina be grown indoors?
- A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight.
- Q: How often should Graptoveria Opalina be repotted?
- A: This plant should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and provide more growing space.
- Q: Can Graptoveria Opalina be propagated from cuttings?
- A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from stem cuttings. Simply cut a stem from the plant, let it dry for a few days, and then plant it in well-draining soil.
- Q: Does Graptoveria Opalina need to go dormant in the winter?
- A: No, this plant does not need to go dormant in the winter. It can continue to grow and bloom throughout the year if provided with the right conditions.
Related Plants
- Graptoveria Fred Ives
- Graptoveria Debbie
- Graptoveria Moonglow
- Graptoveria Bashful
References
- “Graptoveria Opalina.” World of Succulents, https://worldofsucculents.com/graptoveria-opalina-jewel-leaf-plant-ghost-plant/. Accessed 27 April 2021.
- “Graptoveria Opalina Care Guide.” Succulent Alley, https://succulentalley.com/graptoveria-opalina-care-guide/. Accessed 27 April 2021.
- “Graptoveria Opalina.” Mountain Crest Gardens, https://mountaincrestgardens.com/graptoveria-opalina/. Accessed 27 April 2021.
