Graptopetalum paraguayense aka Ghostplant

Taxonomy

Graptopetalum paraguayense, also known as the “ghost plant” and “mother-of-pearl-plant”, is an evergreen succulent from the Crassulaceae family, native to Tamaulipas, Mexico. The ghost plant has white star-shaped flowers and can adapt to different environments and climates, taking on different colors in response to access to light and water. It is an easy-to-maintain houseplant that can be grown in any soil as long as it is well-draining. It needs direct light and very little water to thrive, and can double in size with each repotting without the need for fertilizers. However, it is not safe to consume, which is why it is recommended to keep it out of reach in homes with pets and small children.

Common names

Ghostplant, Mother Of Pearl Plant, Rainbow Mandala Stonecrop

How to care for Ghostplant

Difficulty

Ghostplant is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

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

Soil

When it comes to the Ghostplant, 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

To ensure optimal growth, the Ghostplant prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Ghostplant to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ghostplant is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Humidity

Ghostplant 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 Ghostplant 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

Ghostplant’s native range is Mexico and Arizona.

Flower

If you provide your Ghostplant with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.


More info:
Wikipedia