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Plant Profiles / Ghost plant
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Ghost plant
Graptopetalum paraguayense · Mother-of-pearl plant
A trailing rosette succulent with pearly grey-pink leaves that blush in sun. Tumbles beautifully over the edge of pots and wall planters.
Full sun to bright lightLight
Every 2–3 weeksWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun to bright light
ShadeFull sun
Best colour in 4+ hours of sun.
Water
Every 2–3 weeks
DryWet
Water deeply only when the mix is fully dry.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Prefers dry air.
Temperature
5–35°C (41–95°F)
CoolWarm
Tolerates light frost if kept dry.
Growth
Moderate, trailing
SlowFast
Rosettes 10–15 cm, stems trail to 30 cm.
Soil
Cactus and succulent mix
LeanRich
Gritty, fast-draining mix.
Fertiliser
Twice a year
RarelyOften
Diluted succulent fertiliser in spring and summer.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
About this plant
Native to Mexico, ghost plant forms loose rosettes on stems that lengthen and cascade with age. Leaves turn pink, lavender or amber with sun and cool weather, and fallen leaves root easily.
Best spots
Sunny balcony pots, wall planters, hanging baskets and bright windowsills.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Graptopetalum paraguayense |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Origin | Mexico |
| Plant type | Succulent |
| Mature size | 10–30 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Flowers | Small white starry flowers |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Leaves or stem cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Propagate
Fertilise
Water less
PlantPropagateFertiliseWater less
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Stretched rosettes | Needs more sun. |
| Mushy leaves | Overwatering; let mix dry fully. |
| Leaves dropping | Normal when bumped; replant them. |
| Pale green colour | More sun brings out the pink tones. |
Common questions
Does it trail?
Yes, stems cascade as they lengthen.
Can it grow indoors?
Only in a very bright window.
Is it pet safe?
Yes.
How do I propagate it?
Lay a leaf on dry mix and wait for roots.
