Graptoveria Jacaranda is a succulent hybrid known for its striking appearance and relatively straightforward care. It combines features of its parent genera, Graptopetalum and Echeveria. Its distinctive coloration makes it a popular choice for both seasoned succulent collectors and those new to growing these unique plants.
Identifying Graptoveria Jacaranda
Graptoveria Jacaranda has a compact, rosette form, typically growing 6 to 8 inches in diameter. Its plump, fleshy leaves are symmetrically arranged, inheriting the rosette shape from Echeveria and leaf texture from Graptopetalum. Colors range from green to shades of purple, pink, and blue.
A powdery, waxy coating called farina gives the leaves a frosted appearance and offers protection. Color intensity and specific tones vary based on light exposure, temperature, and watering practices. Sufficient sunlight makes colors more vibrant, often deepening to rich purples and reds.
Graptoveria Jacaranda Care
Light Needs
Graptoveria Jacaranda thrives in bright, indirect light, which maintains its vibrant coloration and compact growth. Indoors, a south or east-facing window is ideal. While it tolerates some direct morning sun, intense afternoon sun can scorch leaves. Insufficient light causes etiolation, where the plant grows elongated stems and widely spaced, paler leaves.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is important for Graptoveria Jacaranda, as succulents are prone to rot if overwatered. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until it drains from the pot bottom, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. This typically means watering every three weeks, but frequency varies with climate, humidity, and pot size. Ensuring the soil is completely dry between waterings prevents root rot.
Soil Requirements
Graptoveria Jacaranda needs a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent potting mix is suitable. You can also create your own by amending regular potting soil with gritty materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand, aiming for a 50% soil to 50% gritty mix ratio. This enhances drainage and aeration.
Temperature and Airflow
Graptoveria Jacaranda prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C) and is sensitive to frost. If temperatures drop below freezing, bring outdoor plants indoors or provide protection. Good air circulation helps dry soil quickly and reduces the risk of fungal diseases. This can be achieved with good ventilation or a small fan indoors.
Fertilizing
Graptoveria Jacaranda has minimal fertilization needs and thrives without much supplemental feeding. If fertilizing, do so sparingly during its active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, low-nitrogen liquid fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength, applying once a month or every two months. Over-fertilization can lead to leggy growth and diminish its compact form and vibrant colors.
Propagating Graptoveria Jacaranda
Propagating Graptoveria Jacaranda is primarily done through leaf or stem cuttings. For leaf propagation, gently twist a healthy, plump leaf from the stem, ensuring the entire base is intact. Allow the leaf to callus (dry and form a scab) for a few days to a week in a dry, shaded area to prevent rot. Once callused, place it on well-draining succulent soil; roots and new plantlets will emerge.
For stem cuttings, cut a section of stem with several leaves, remove the lowest, and allow it to callus for a few days. Insert the stem into well-draining soil. Do not water propagations until roots form, which can take several weeks. Once rooted, begin light watering, gradually increasing as the new plant establishes itself.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Etiolation, or stretching, occurs when Graptoveria Jacaranda doesn’t receive enough light, causing it to become leggy and lose its compact form. To correct this, gradually move the plant to a brighter location with more intense indirect light. Overwatering is a frequent problem, leading to soft, mushy leaves and stem rot. If rot is detected, stop watering immediately and prune affected areas. Ensure remaining plant parts are healthy and allowed to callus before replanting in dry, well-draining soil.
Shriveled or wrinkled leaves indicate underwatering; a thorough soaking will rehydrate the plant. Pests like mealybugs may appear as small, white, cottony masses. Remove them by dabbing with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab or using an insecticidal soap.