Graptopetalum paraguayense

Common Names

Ghost Plant, Mother of Pearl Plant, Mother of Pearl, Ghost Flower Plant

Summary

Ghost Plant is a rosette-forming succulent native to Mexico, with trailing stems and pale blue-gray leaves covered by a powdery farina. Rosettes reach about 3–6 inches across, forming clumps; leaves may take on pinkish edges in bright sun and blue-gray tones in shade, signaling a drought-tolerant, evergreen growth habit.

For cultivation, it prefers well-drained gritty soil and bright light from full sun to partial shade; water only after the soil dries completely, with reduced watering in winter; hardy in USDA zones 9a–11b and suitable for outdoor use in warm climates or indoors as a potted plant. Propagation is easy from leaf cuttings or offsets, and common uses include rock gardens, ground covers, containers, and hanging baskets; fertilize sparingly during the growing season and monitor for mealybugs.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

6-12 inches

Spread

2-3 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 9a-11b

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun to partial sun.

Soil Type

Well-draining, gritty, porous cactus/succulent mix.

Soil Drainage

Well-draining soil

Soil pH

6.1-7.5, slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

White

Bloom Time

Spring

Foliage Color

Blue-gray to gray-green foliage.

Fall Foliage Color

Pink, Purple, Red

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Fast-growing, rapid growth, vigorous, growth spurts during cooler weather in spring and autumn

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Offsets, Division, Layering

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts butterflies, Attracts hummingbirds