Graptopetalum paraguayense ssp. bernalense Monstrose

Graptopetalum paraguayense ssp. bernalense Monstrose is a rare and highly distinctive growth form characterised by irregular rosettes, contorted foliage and fascinating streaks of colour that can vary considerably from one growing point to another. Compact and relatively slow growing, it gradually develops into a densely branched, sculptural specimen in which no two rosettes are quite alike.

Irregular foliage and remarkable colour

Unlike the more orderly rosettes of the regular species, this monstrose form grows unpredictably. Leaves may be broad and rounded, narrower or distinctly distorted, while individual growing points can develop their own characteristic shapes. As the plant branches, these irregular rosettes gradually build into a complex multi-headed specimen.

The foliage is equally variable in colour and markings. Plants can range from soft powdery blue and blue-green through pale pink and mauve to richer reddish-purple and plum tones. A bluish cast remains apparent through many of these colour phases, enhanced by the naturally powdery surface of the leaves.

Many leaves also develop distinctive longitudinal streaks and striations running from the base towards the tip. Some appear as fine lines while others form broader contrasting areas of green, cream, pink or purple. The combination of monstrose growth and variable markings means that individual plants can look remarkably different as they develop.

A compact, slower-growing form

In our nursery we have found this monstrose form noticeably slower growing than the regular plant. Rather than rapidly extending and producing uniform rosettes, it develops gradually through irregular branching and new growing points. With time it can form a beautifully compact specimen with considerable character.

Occasional selective pruning can be used to shape an established plant and encourage further branching. Suitable stem sections also propagate readily from cuttings, making pruning a useful way of both maintaining the form of an older specimen and producing new plants.

From subspecies to recognised species

This plant has long been known in cultivation as Graptopetalum paraguayense ssp. bernalense, the name under which the taxon was formally described in 1986. More recent botanical treatment recognises it as a species in its own right, Graptopetalum bernalense, with the former subspecies name now treated as a synonym.

The species is native to Tamaulipas in north-eastern Mexico. Wild populations are recorded from Cerro del Bernal and the Sierra de Tamaulipas, where plants occur in crevices in steep rocky formations, including porphyritic and igneous rock. The regular species naturally produces relatively small rosettes and is more compact in all its parts than the familiar Graptopetalum paraguayense.

The unusual Monstrose plant offered here is a cultivated growth form of Graptopetalum bernalense. We have not found reliable evidence establishing that this particular monstrose form occurs naturally in the documented wild populations, so we distinguish the characteristics of the cultivated form from those of the species in its natural habitat.

Growing Graptopetalum bernalense Monstrose

Grow this form in a free-draining succulent mix and provide plenty of bright light to maintain compact growth and encourage good colour. Its powdery foliage can develop attractive blue, pink, mauve and purple tones under different seasonal and growing conditions. Plants should nevertheless be acclimatised gradually before exposure to intense Australian summer sun, particularly when previously grown under protection.

Water thoroughly when required and allow the growing medium to dry appropriately before watering again. Avoid keeping the roots continually wet, particularly during cooler periods when growth has slowed. Because this is naturally a slower-growing form, patience is rewarded: over time the irregular branching, changing foliage and individually shaped rosettes become increasingly pronounced.

Graptopetalum paraguayense ssp. bernalense Monstrose, plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images. Image one for display only. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.