Opalina - ×Graptoveria 'Opalina' (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Opalina

Opalina's leaves are pale blue with an even, thin layer of white powder on their surface. It's best to provide this plant with plenty of light as part of its care. With ample light and great temperature variation, its leaf margins will turn a gorgeous pink and its leaves pinkishly white. When light is insufficient, it will quickly grow excessively and the pink color will fade to an ordinary green.

Scientific classification

Species

Opalina (×Graptoveria 'Opalina')

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

15 cm to 20 cm

Plant Height

Yellow, Orange

Flower Color

Summer dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Opalina

Culture

Garden Use

Fast-growing opalina is an excellent choice for outdoor container succulent gardens. Because this species is not tolerant of frost, planting it in a container and moving it indoors or into a greenhouse in winter helps it survive cold weather. If your succulent garden is in a frost-free location, this plant adds contrast and interest with its blue-green leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in spring.

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Care Guide for Opalina

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Opalina thrives in arid environments, utilizing efficient water storage for drought tolerance. Water sparingly, every three weeks, to mimic natural dry cycles. It prefers outdoor conditions with ample sunlight and well-draining soil, benefiting from seasonal rains.

Fertilize: Fertilize opalina quarterly with diluted Succulents and Cacti Food to promote growth and color. Increase to bimonthly during spring and summer, avoiding winter feeding. Apply fertilizer to moist soil, monitor for overfertilization signs, and flush soil to eliminate excess salts.

Pruning: To maintain opalina's shape, prune redundant or dense branches in spring and fall using knives or scissors. For propagation, cut a stout stem with 5-6 leaves, apply sulfur powder to the wound, and plant after it heals. Ensure the planting soil is slightly moist.

Propagation: Propagating opalina is a fulfilling hobby for gardeners. The best method involves taking cuttings from healthy leaves and allowing them to callus before placing them in well-draining soil. Consistent moisture and bright, indirect light are crucial for encouraging root development and new growth.

Repotting: Opalina is a rosette-forming succulent that requires biennial repotting in spring to promote healthy growth. Use a slightly larger container to minimize stress. After repotting, provide bright, indirect light and limit watering until roots reestablish, ensuring vibrant, opalescent foliage.

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