Care of the succulent plant Graptopetalum bellum or Tacitus bellus |
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The genus Graptopetalum, family Crassulaceae, comprises 12 species of succulent plants native to Mexico. Some species are: Graptopetalum bellum, Graptopetalum paraguayense, Graptopetalum amethystinum, Graptopetalum pentandrum. Scientific synonym: Tacitus bellus. This species is native to northern Mexico. They are succulent plants with rosette leaves that reach 15 cm (5.9") in diameter and 12 cm (4.7") in height when flowering. The leaves are triangular and dark grayish green or green with bronze tones. The showy pink star-shaped flowers appear in branching inflorescences above the leaves. They bloom from mid-spring to early summer. They are often used in pots for patios, balconies and terraces, as indoor and greenhouse plants. In frost-free regions they can be used in rockeries and in cactus and succulent gardens. The Graptopetalum bellum prefers a semi-shade exposure avoiding direct sun in the central hours of the day, especially in Mediterranean climates. In cooler climates it can be grown in full sun. Withstands light and occasional frosts if the substrate is dry. They should rest in winter at about 15 ºC (59 ºF). The soil can be a commercial substrate for cacti and succulent plants. Water moderately, waiting for the substrate to be almost dry; it is better to water them by immersion so as not to wet the leaves. Fertilize with mineral fertilizer for succulents once in early spring. Prune wilted inflorescences. They are plants prone to attack by mealybugs, especially if ventilation is poor. They are propagated by separating suckers, from seeds sown in spring, and by leaf cuttings. |
Images of the succulent plant Graptopetalum bellum or Tacitus bellus |
 Graptopetalum bellum  Graptopetalum bellum  Graptopetalum bellum |