Macdougall's Graptopetalum
graptopetalum macdougallii
Also known as: []
Overview
A succulent species native to Mexico, characterized by rosettes of fleshy, pale green to grayish leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Graptopetalum |
| Botanical Name: | Graptopetalum macdougallii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor in a rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only damaged or overgrown parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in east-facing windows indoors; move outdoors slowly in spring/summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for aesthetics.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–80°F (15–27°C); prefers cooler winters (50–60°F/10–15°C) for dormancy.
Avoid drafts, maintain consistent temps, protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; both methods are effective for this succulent.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting, let it callus for 1–2 days, plant in medium, water lightly, and maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and succulent/cactus soil or sand.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; rooting powder or gel is recommended.
Timeline
Leaf cuttings may root in 2–4 weeks; stem cuttings establish in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, propagation tray.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium barely moist; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or junction; pinch back tips for compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged parts, shape as desired, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter) with drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Check root health, use fresh soil, ensure drainage, water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting mix; ensure chunky, airy texture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or mushy stems from cold; wilting or sunburn from excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes root rot, and may lead to fungal infections in prolonged cold or damp conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, ensure good drainage, and reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting, especially in high humidity with intense sun.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water early in the day, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute properly, apply to moist soil, stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGraptopetalum macdougallii is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicGraptopetalum macdougallii is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicGraptopetalum macdougallii is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Graptopetalum macdougallii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Graptopetalum macdougallii toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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