Graptopetalum 'Ellen'

Graptopetalum 'Ellen', also known as Graptopetalum Daruma Shu-rei, is a beautiful succulent that is native to Mexico and southwestern United States. This intergeneric hybrid of unknown parentage forms rosettes of chubby, pale green leaves that turn powdery pink to purple when stressed. The rosettes grow up to 8 cm in diameter and are perched at the end of decumbent or pendent, basally branched stems that can spill over the edge of a pot.

In spring, Graptopetalum 'Ellen' produces star-shaped, yellowish flowers with sometimes red spots in clusters on short, branched stalks. This succulent thrives in sunlight, so it's best to choose a location where it will receive full sun. However, it can also grow in partial shade with slightly rangy results. When grown as a houseplant, keep it near a sunny window.

To maintain a healthy root system, the plant needs good drainage. Choose a well-drained soil mix and a pot with drainage holes when growing Graptopetalum 'Ellen' in a pot. The plant will do well in hot weather, but its most active growth will occur in spring and fall. It can withstand temperatures as low as -6.7°C.

When grown outdoors in full sun, Graptopetalum 'Ellen' will appreciate a weekly watering in summer. Cut back on watering to about every 10 to 14 days when the weather cools down in spring and fall. Rather than giving the potted plant little splashes of water here and there, give it a good soaking until water runs out the drainage holes, then wait for the soil to dry out completely before watering again. In winter, water your plant just enough to keep it from shriveling.

Apply fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flower production during the active growing season. A water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength is suitable and commonly used. Graptopetalum 'Ellen' does not need frequent repotting. Instead, repot your plant when it has outgrown its container in fresh potting mix in a new pot slightly larger than the old one. Give the plant a week or so to readjust before you water it.

Propagation of Graptopetalum 'Ellen' is easy through stem cuttings or leaves. Even a leaf that drops off quickly roots below the parent plant and produces a new rosette. The best time to take cuttings is spring and summer. Graptopetalum 'Ellen' is a low maintenance plant that is perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners alike.

Graptopetalum 'Ellen' multi head for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images 2 onward. First image for display only. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.