Graptoveria 'Opalina' Variegata
Graptoveria 'Opalina' Variegata is a variegated form of the well-known Graptoveria 'Opalina', combining the cultivar's thick, softly rounded foliage with irregular areas of cream, yellow, pale green and blue-green. Pink and rosy tones can also develop through the variegated foliage, producing considerable variation between individual plants and throughout the seasons.
Variegation and opalescent colour
Each plant develops its own distribution of variegation, with individual leaves displaying different proportions of green and paler tissue. The underlying blue-green and pink colouring associated with 'Opalina' remains visible alongside the cream and yellow variegation, giving well-coloured plants a particularly varied appearance.
The thick leaves carry a natural powdery coating of farina, contributing to their soft, pastel appearance. Farina is easily marked by handling and does not immediately regenerate on damaged areas of individual leaves, so the foliage is best handled as little as possible.
The origins of Graptoveria 'Opalina'
The original Graptoveria 'Opalina' was created by Californian succulent breeder Robert Grim from a cross between Echeveria colorata and Graptopetalum amethystinum. The cultivar was published in 1988 and became known for its highly succulent blue-green foliage flushed with pink, colours that inspired the name 'Opalina'.
The variegated form offered here retains the characteristic fleshy foliage and rosette structure of 'Opalina', with the addition of irregular variegation. While the parentage of the original 'Opalina' is well documented, we have not found reliable documentation establishing the origin of its variegated form and therefore do not attribute the variegation to a particular breeder or nursery.
Growth and seasonal changes
Plants form substantial rosettes and can gradually produce offsets as they mature, eventually developing into attractive multi-headed specimens. Colour varies considerably according to light, temperature and season. Brighter conditions can encourage stronger pink and rosy tones, while plants grown under softer conditions may display more subdued blue-green, cream and pale green colouring.
Because strongly variegated areas contain less chlorophyll, growth can be somewhat slower than in regular 'Opalina'. Individual offsets may also vary in their level and pattern of variegation.
Growing Graptoveria 'Opalina' Variegata
Grow in a free-draining succulent mix with plenty of bright light and good airflow. Good light helps maintain compact growth and attractive colour, although the paler variegated foliage can be more susceptible to scorching than regular 'Opalina'. Plants should therefore be acclimatised gradually to stronger sun and given some protection from intense Australian afternoon summer sun where necessary.
Water thoroughly when required and allow the growing medium to dry appropriately between waterings. Avoid keeping the roots continuously wet. Take particular care when handling the plant so that the natural farina and softer variegated foliage remain undamaged.
Graptoveria 'Opalina' Variegata plants for sale shown in 70mm pots. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images. Colours and variegation will vary between individual plants and according to time of year and growing conditions.
All plants are shipped bare rooted unless otherwise stated. Orders are carefully packed and shipped via Express Post to NSW, VIC, QLD, SA and ACT. Orders are dispatched according to our weekly shipping schedule, available on our Shipping page, with tracking provided once your order has been lodged with Australia Post.
Succulents naturally change in colour, size and form throughout the year. Many develop richer colours and more compact growth during periods of seasonal stress, particularly through cooler months and brighter conditions, while warmer or lower-light conditions may produce greener, softer growth.
The plant you receive may therefore vary from the product images depending on the season, its stage of growth and current growing conditions. These natural variations are part of the character of living plants and do not affect their quality or health.
Pickup is available in Seville, Yarra Valley VIC by appointment. Order online as normal and any shipping charge will be automatically refunded after collection, unless you would prefer to receive an additional plant of similar value instead.
Important Plant Information
All plants are shipped bare rooted unless otherwise stated. This helps reduce shipping costs, improves plant safety during transit and allows plants to travel more reliably.
Plants are carefully packed for Express Post and may vary naturally in colour, size and form according to season, growth stage and growing conditions.
Please check the product description and images for information specific to the plant you are purchasing.
If you have any questions about your plant or order, please reach out to us. We’re always happy to help.