Graptoveria ‘Cubic Frost’ is a distinctive succulent known for its unique appearance. This guide provides information on caring for and propagating this succulent.
What is Cubic Frost
Graptoveria ‘Cubic Frost’ is a hybrid succulent, a cross between Graptopetalum paraguayense and an Echeveria species. It is characterized by thick, fleshy leaves that often display an angular, almost cubic, form. These leaves are arranged in a compact rosette, growing up to 10 inches in diameter.
The foliage typically exhibits colors from soft blue-green to vibrant lilac and pink tones, often with a powdery, waxy coating called farina. This farina helps protect the plant from sun exposure. Brighter light encourages more pronounced pink and purple hues. ‘Cubic Frost’ also produces orange bell-shaped flowers on tall stalks during its spring to summer growing season.
Caring for Your Cubic Frost
Appropriate light is essential for the health and vibrant coloration of ‘Cubic Frost’. This succulent thrives in bright, indirect light to full sun, which enhances its characteristic lilac and pink tones. Insufficient light can lead to etiolation, causing the plant to stretch and lose its compact rosette form. Indoors, a south or east-facing window is often ideal, or a grow light can supplement natural light, especially during winter.
Correct watering is crucial to prevent rot in ‘Cubic Frost’. The “soak and dry” method is recommended: thoroughly water the soil until it drains from the bottom, then allow it to dry completely before the next watering. Overwatering can cause mushy, yellowing leaves and lead to stem or root rot, while underwatering may result in dry, crispy leaves. During winter dormancy, reduce watering frequency significantly.
Well-draining soil is essential for ‘Cubic Frost’ to prevent water retention around its roots. A commercial succulent or cactus mix works well, or a custom blend using 50% soil and 50% gritty materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand is effective. Pots with drainage holes, preferably made from porous materials like terracotta or ceramic, further aid in proper drainage and airflow. Repotting is generally needed only every two to three years as these succulents are slow growers.
‘Cubic Frost’ prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). While it can tolerate higher temperatures, protect it from intense midday sun during heatwaves to prevent sunburn. This succulent is not frost-hardy and will not survive hard freezes, tolerating temperatures as low as 30°F (-1.1°C) for short periods. If frost is expected, bring it indoors or protect it with frost cloth. Low to medium humidity (around 30-40%) is ideal, which is common in most indoor environments.
Fertilization is not strictly necessary for ‘Cubic Frost’, but it can encourage more robust growth during the active growing season. If used, a balanced, water-soluble succulent fertilizer diluted to half strength can be applied once a month during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing during the plant’s dormant period to prevent weakening or burning the roots.
Propagating Cubic Frost
‘Cubic Frost’ can be propagated through leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, and offsets. Leaf propagation is often successful. To propagate from a leaf, gently twist a healthy leaf from the mother plant, ensuring the entire leaf, including its base, is intact.
For stem cuttings, use a clean, sharp tool to cut a section of the stem. Offsets, small plantlets that form around the base of the main rosette, can be carefully removed when large enough and with a substantial stalk. After obtaining leaves, stems, or offsets, allow them to callus for a few days to a week in a dry, bright, and sheltered spot. Then, plant them in well-draining succulent soil. New roots typically form within two to four weeks, and new growth will emerge from the callused end.
Common Cubic Frost Problems
Etiolation is a common issue with ‘Cubic Frost’, manifesting as a stretched, leggy appearance with elongated stems and widely spaced leaves. This condition results from insufficient light exposure, as the plant attempts to reach for a light source. To remedy etiolation, gradually move the plant to a brighter location, ensuring it receives more direct sunlight to encourage compact growth.
Overwatering is a frequent problem that can damage ‘Cubic Frost’. Symptoms include mushy, yellow, or translucent leaves, often accompanied by root and stem rot, which can cause the plant’s center to blacken. To prevent this, adhere strictly to the “soak and dry” watering method and ensure the plant is in well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes. If rot is severe, trimming away affected parts and propagating healthy sections may be the only solution.
Pests can also affect ‘Cubic Frost’, with mealybugs and aphids being among the most common. Mealybugs often appear as small, white, cottony masses in leaf crevices, while aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that cluster on new growth. Regularly inspecting the plant helps in early detection. Treatment can involve dabbing pests with rubbing alcohol or applying insecticidal soap, ensuring thorough coverage to eliminate the infestation.
Fading or lack of vibrant color in the leaves, where the distinctive lilac and pink hues become muted or appear more green, is another concern. This occurs when the plant does not receive enough intense light. Increasing the plant’s exposure to bright, direct sunlight will help restore its characteristic vibrant coloration. However, introduce increased sunlight gradually to prevent sunburn, which can cause brown, scorched patches on the leaves.