x Graptoveria 'Opalina' is a succulent plant from the Echeveria genus. Its fleshy leaves grow alternately in a rosette shape, displaying a delicate pale blue color with pink undertones. The leaf edges and tips can turn reddish, adding a touch of charm that evokes the gentle blush of an ancient beauty.
x Graptoveria 'Opalina' is a winter-growing succulent that thrives in warm, dry, and sunny conditions. It is drought-tolerant but dislikes prolonged soil moisture. The ideal growing temperature is 10–25°C (50–77°F). It prefers plenty of sunlight, cool and dry environments, and is not frost-resistant. x Graptoveria 'Opalina' readily forms clusters and can be propagated through leaf cuttings, beheading, or separating side shoots.
Growth and Care Overview
Planting Season:
x Graptoveria 'Opalina' can be planted year-round except during the coldest winter months.
Flowering Season:
x Graptoveria 'Opalina' typically blooms in spring, usually early spring. However, the exact timing may vary depending on the care environment and regional climate.
Flower Meaning:
Resilience and strength in life.
Beautiful hope and expectation.
Care Instructions and Tips
Soil
x Graptoveria 'Opalina' requires soil with excellent breathability and drainage to prevent waterlogging and root rot. It has low nutritional demands, so standard succulent soil with good aeration and drainage properties works well.
Light
x Graptoveria 'Opalina' needs a high amount of light.
Summer (above 30°C/86°F): Provide shade to protect it from intense sunlight.
Other seasons: Semi-shade or full sun exposure is ideal.
With adequate sunlight, the plant’s leaves become compact, the powdery coating thickens, and the leaf edges and tips gain a reddish hue resembling blush. Insufficient light can cause etiolation (stretching), making the plant top-heavy and unstable.
Watering
Moderate water control is essential.
Do not water too frequently, and ensure the soil is completely dry before the next watering.
Avoid pouring water directly on the leaves, as x Graptoveria 'Opalina''s surface is coated with a protective white powder that should not be touched or washed away.
During rainy days, it is best to shelter the plant to prevent the white powder from being washed off.
Fertilization
x Graptoveria 'Opalina' has low nutrient requirements.
Fertilize twice a year, which is sufficient for healthy growth.
Use multi-element compound fertilizers, preferably slow-release granular types.
Temperature
Summer: Avoid temperatures above 35°C (95°F), as the plant will enter dormancy.
Winter: Keep the temperature above 5°C (41°F) to prevent frost damage.
With proper care, x Graptoveria 'Opalina' will thrive, showcasing its unique pastel colors and graceful form while remaining resilient to various growing conditions.