Graptopetalum bellum aka Chihuahua Flower

Taxonomy

Graptopetalum bellum, also known as Tacitus bellus, is a beautiful species of flowering plant in the stonecrop family Crassulaceae. Native to northern Mexico, it was discovered by Alfred Lau in 1972 in Chihuahua and Sonora, growing at an altitude of 1,460 m. This succulent perennial thrives in rocky terrain with moderate sun exposure. It forms rosettes that can reach up to 10 cm in diameter and lie almost flat on the ground. The leaves are oval, grey-green, and abruptly pointed, giving them a distinct appearance. In late spring and early summer, small clusters of star-shaped flowers measuring 2.5 cm across grace the plant. These flowers range in color from pink to deep pink, adding a vibrant touch to the succulent. The inflorescence, standing 10 cm tall, bears these beautiful flowers, each with five petals and dark pink stamens with white anthers. With its unique foliage and stunning blooms, Graptopetalum bellum is a captivating addition to any garden or succulent collection.

Common names

Chihuahua Flower

How to care for Chihuahua Flower

Difficulty

Chihuahua Flower requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Chihuahua Flower does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

When it comes to the Chihuahua Flower, a potting soil that is too moist can cause problems. For this reason, it's important to use a soil mix that is well-draining and does not retain too much moisture. A soil that includes perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. You can achieve this by simply adding a few scoops of perlite to your store-bought cactus soil.

Lighting

Chihuahua Flower requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Chihuahua Flower will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Humidity

Chihuahua Flower enjoys dry environments, but misting the plant or providing extra humidity can create an environment for harmful fungi to thrive on the leaves.

Fertilizer

The growth of Chihuahua Flower is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Chihuahua Flower’s native range is Mexico and Arizona.


More info:
Wikipedia